§ 16. Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the latest figure available for the proportion of the average cost of a funeral covered by the death grant; what were the equivalent proportions in 1950, 1960 and 1970; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PrenticeThe average cost of a funeral varies according to the locality. However, on the assumption that it is generally in the region of £250, the £30 death grant represents about 12 per cent. of the cost. The £20 grant introduced in 1949 represented about 60 per cent. of the cost in 1950. After the increase to £25 in 1958. the grant represented about 50 per cent. of the cost in 1960. The grant was again increased, to £30, in 1967 and in 1970 it covered rather less than 35 per cent. of the average cost of a funeral.
My right hon. Friend is considering the whole question of the death grant and 612W he will make a statement as soon as he is in a position to do so.