HC Deb 01 February 1983 vol 36 cc78-9W
Mr. Crawshaw

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he has any plans to amend the overlapping benefit regulations which at present adversely affect some 5,000 war widows over the age of 80 years presently in receipt of the retirement pension.

Mr. Rossi

No. A war widow is eligible for a pension which gives a substantial lead over the provision for widowhood in general and with which an age addition is payable from age 65 and increased at age 70. She may also draw, in full, any national insurance retirement pension for which she has contributed herself, and this is enhanced by a small age addition from age 80. We have no plans for any change in this pattern.