asked the Minister of National Insurance whether he has considered the position of a married woman who has reached pensionable age since 5th July, 1948, but is not receiving a pension because her husband, who reached pensionable age before that date and is drawing a pension of 10s. a week, has not yet retired from employment; and whether he can make a statement on the subject.

Yes, Sir; we are amending the regulations to enable the retirement pension such a woman may receive when her husband retires or reaches the age of 70, or on his earlier death, to be increased by one shilling a week for every 12 months which have elapsed between her sixtieth birthday and the date when the pension becomes payable.

Is my hon. Friend aware that that answer will give satisfaction? Can he say whether these regulations will come before the House before the Summer Recess?

Oh, yes, we want to do this quickly.

Will the regulations require the confirmation of this House.

I should like to have notice of that question.