§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the latest timetable for the Government's plans to give improved financial assistance to disabled housewives and whether they have been delayed at all by the Government's recent review of public expenditure.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisThe November up-rating will benefit a substantial number or disabled "housewives" and in particular those over pension age. The new mobility allowance of £260 a year will he introduced in stages from January 1976. Housewives will be able to qualify for this new benefit, within their age groups, on the same basis as men and single women. It is not yet possible to say when payment of the housewives' noncontributory invalidity pension will begin.