§ Mr. Churchillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, of the 69,800 widows in receipt of a war widow's pension, how many do not qualify for an additional pension under the armed forces pension scheme; and what is the average total payment to a war widow in each category.
§ Mr. NewtonThe precise number is not known, but the vast majority of widows in receipt of a war widow's pension do not receive a service attributable pension from the Ministry of Defence. I regret that the information requested about the average total payments is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Nevertheless, as far as payments to widows under the war pensions scheme are concerned, for the vast majority the standard rate ranges between £2,307 and £2,917—related to rank—a year. Additionally, age allowances—£224 a year at age 65 which is increased to £448 a year at age 70—increases for dependent children-£571 a year —and rent allowances—up to £879 a year—are payable where appropriate.
Rates payable under the armed forces pension scheme are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence.