§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent the £25 maternity grant is payable to any applicant; and whether, in particular, a person who is unemployed and unable to pay his insurance is entitled to claim this allowance.
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§ Mr. DeanA national insurance maternity grant is payable where the woman, or her husband, satisfies the statutory conditions, including the contribution conditions. At least 26 contributions of any class must have been paid since entry into insurance, and in the relevant contribution year at least 26 contributions must have been paid or credited, including contributions credited in respect of weeks of unemployment. I have written to the hon. Member about the case which I think he has in mind.