§ Sir M. Sueterasked the Secretary of State for Air whether any alterations are contemplated in the rates of pension payable to the widows of airmen whose death is attributable to service?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir. I am glad to be able to say that it has been decided to increase, with effect from the first of this month, the rates of pension payable to airmen's widows. Pensions for widows not above the age of 40 and without children will now range from 15s. 6d to 23s. a week, according to the rank held by the husband, and for widows above the age of 40, or not above that age but with children, from 22s. 6d. to 30s. In addition, allowances will be granted for children as provided for by the existing regulations. The increased rates will be payable to all widows already in receipt of pensions under Royal Air Force regulations, and arrangements will be made for awards to be adjusted, with effect1554W from the first of this month, without application from the pensioners.