§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what is the latest position regarding discussions to simplify the war pensions scheme.
§ Miss WiddecombeProposals for simplifying the war pensions scheme and improving its administration were discussed with the war pensions central advisory committee on 5 December 1991. Its response was broadly to welcome the thrust of the proposed changes. Final decisions will be made and announced after consideration of the many detailed comments is completed. We have previously indicated that resources available to the war pensions scheme and individual cash entitlements of war pensioners will not be reduced as a result. That remains the position.