§ 28. Mrs. Middletonasked the Minister of Pensions whether in view of the increased cost of living, he will raise the level of Service pensions generally, and particularly those of elderly widows who are not able to augment their pension by earnings.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopThere have been substantial improvements in the war pensions provisions since 1939, and the number of improvements announced by my right hon. Friend since October last, together24W with one I am about to announce in respect of certain widows of the 1914 World War, indicates that he has the provisions under constant review.
§ 29. Mrs. Middletonasked the Minister of Pensions if he will reconsider the position of certain widows of pensioners of the 1914 World War, who are in receipt of modified pensions because their husbands' deaths were only in some measure due to war service.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopAs from 5th July next, when the National Insurance Act comes into operation, the minimum modified pension for widows of pensioners of the 1914 war will be 26s. a week where the widow is over 40, is incapable of self-support or has children. Existing pensions will be increased without application.