Mr. Alan WilliamsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what estimate has been made of the number of pre-1973 war widows who are in receipt of(a) income support, (b) housing benefit and (c) rate relief.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardIt is estimated that about 1 per cent. of pre-1973 war widows are in receipt of income support and that about 20 per cent. receive housing benefit which includes help with rates.
Mr. Alan WilliamsTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what amount would be recouped by Government via lost or reduced entitlement for(a) housing benefit, (b) income support, (c) rate relief until April 1990 and (d) lower rates of community charge after April 1990, as a result of giving post-1973 war widow rates of pension to pre-1973 war widows; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardI refer the right hon. Member to the statement made earlier today by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence.