asked the Minister of Pensions whether he can now announce the increases in pensions to widows?

I am not yet in a position to make an announcement with regard to the new Royal Warrant, which will deal with increases in pensions to widows as well as various other matters.

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell me how long the suggestions have been before the Treasury in regard to the pensions for widows; and can he say whether he is aware that the pension of a widow when her husband has been killed is very much less than the amount she receives in separation allowance when he is alive and serving?

I am hopeful of having a decision within the next fortnight.

I will put the question down in a fortnight's time.