SOCIAL SECURITY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23178, 26 October 1938, Page 17

SOCIAL SECURITY

Sir,—-Your correspondent "Neither of Them" should obtain a pamphlet about the "Social Security Act," which is easily obtainable. On page 15 will be found under "Childless Widows" an entirely new benefit. Rate of benefit is £1 a week. Allowable other income is a further £1 a week or £2 per week in all. Qualification that the widow (a) become a widow after the age of 50 years, and had been married for not less than five years. In this case the benefit is available from date of widowhood on application, (b) Become a widow after the age of 40 years; that the marriage continued for not less than 10 years, and that 15 years have elapsed since the date of her marriage. In this case the benefit becomes available from the date that the widow reaches the age of 50 years. All widows' benefits are payable irrespective of any property possessed by the widow; the income only being considered. Should her circiitnstances not concur with the above, one presumes, she is classified as a spinster without means, and bqf.omes eligible for Unemployment Benefit; which between 16 and 20 years, is 10s per week; an entirely new clause; and over 20 years, £1 per week. All the above classes in addition are eligible for full medical benefits. An Act which trully benefits all from "the cradle to the grave." Might one conclude by congratulating the Government on making this Act so readily available in booklet form, and express the wish that the practice continue with future Acts of general interest at least. Nil Despf.randum.