HC Deb 08 November 1978 vol 957 cc199-200W
Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how much it would cost to increase the death grant so that it would equal the amount originally granted in 1948.

Mr. Orme

I refer my hon. Friend to my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Stoke-on-Trent, South (Mr. Ashley) on 7th November.

Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will increase the death grant immediately in line with the cost of living.

Mr. orme

I refer my hon.Friend to my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Cannock (Mr. Roberts) on 7th November.

Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if, in view of the exceptional problems when families find it impossible to insure an infant, and the infant subsequently dies, the Government will consider a special death grant to parents in this situation.

Mr. Orme

We have no plans to introduce a special grant in these cases. If payment of funeral expenses causes hardship to the parents, the Supplementary Benefits Commission may be able to augment the death grant. If my hon. Friend has a specific case in mind, perhaps he will write to me.