Written question asked by Mark Todd (Labour) on Thursday, 9 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 16 November 2000. It was answered by Angela Eagle (Labour) on Thursday, 16 November 2000 on behalf of the Department of Social Security.

Dept of Social Security

Question: To 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.

Answer: Mr. Tight: To 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 Eagle: The 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.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 356 c795W; 138316
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Bereavement benefits Equality Fathers Social security benefits Tax allowances Widowed people Widowed parent's allowance Widows payment Widowed mothers allowance
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk