asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received concerning payment of non-contributory invalidity pension for married women to women over the age of 60 years whose husbands have not reached retirement age; what reply he has given; and if he will make a statement.

Apart from a Question from my hon. Friend the Member for Huddersfield, East (Mr. Mallalieu) to which my right hon. Friend replied on 13th January 1978, there have been a number of representations from hon. Members and others about this particular group.We have made it clear in our replies that a woman who becomes entitled to the non-contributory invalidity pension for married women can retain it if she is not entitled to a retirement pension at the same or a higher rate when she reaches age 60.—[Vol. 941, c.