HC Deb 27 January 1958 vol 581 cc6-7W
64. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance why those widows in receipt of a pension less than the full amount will not receive the full increase of 10s.; and why, in these cases, the amount of increase is related to an earlier deficiency in contributions.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Because this is a contributory pension, and it has always been thought fair on the occasion of previous increases that pensions based on deficient contribution records should be increased in a way which preserves their proportionate relationship to the standard pension.

65. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance the number of widows in receipt of widows' pension at less than the full rate by virtue of a deficiency in contributions by the late husband.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

About 5,000.