§ Mr. Luceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what would be the estimated cost of giving widows the full pension in the first three months of widowhood; and how many additional widows would benefit.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownProvision already exists for payment of a higher rate of benefit under the National Insurance Scheme for the first six months of widowhood. This resettlement benefit —called widow's allowance—is currently £10.85 a week—to be increased to £14 from July—as compared with the standard flat-rate widow's pension of £7.75 a week—to be increased to £10 in July. A supplementary allowance related to the late husband's earnings, the maximum rate of which is at present £8.47 a week, may also be payable for the widow's allowance period.