HC Deb 30 April 1984 vol 59 cc51-2W
Mr.Durant

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many widows paid full national insurance contributions; and what percentage of the total number of widows this represents.

Dr.Boyson

In the 1981–82 tax year, 86,300 widows paid full rate national insurance contributions, including 1,800 who had a mixture of full rate and reduced rate contributions. The 86,300 figure represents about 37 per cent. of the total number of widows who paid a national insurance contribution.

Mr.Durant

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many widows are entirely dependent upon their state pensions as their only source of income.

Dr. Boyson

The information requested is not immediately available. I shall reply to my hon. Friend as soon as possible.