§ Mr. ToddTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will make a statement on the implications of the Crossland case for the claims of widowers for equality of treatment.[138316]
§ Angela EagleThe ECHR case of Christopher Crossland, which was resolved by friendly settlement, concerned only the Widows Bereavement (Tax) Allowance, and therefore has no implications for Widows Benefits.
In introducing Bereavement Benefits from 9 April 2001, we will, for the first time, introduce specific benefits for widowers on the death of their spouse. These benefits will be available equally to men and women.
Fathers who are widowed before these benefits are introduced will be able to claim Widowed Parent's Allowance from 9 April 2001 as long as they satisfy the qualifying conditions.