Financial Resolutions, 1978: Financial Statement, Budget, 1978. - Veterans of the War of Independence
I am also providing today for three improvements for veterans of the War of Independence and their dependants. First, I propose to have a telephone rental subsidies scheme provided for veterans living alone, similar to that for old age pensioners. Secondly, at present the spouse, under 66 years of age, of a veteran, is entitled to free travel only if accompanied by the veteran. Widows of veterans, on the other hand, are entitled to free travel in their own right, irrespective of age. I propose to remove this anomaly so that in future spouses of veterans will be entitled to free travel in their own right.
Finally, I am increasing the funeral grant in respect of holders of special allowances, which has remained unchanged since the 1972 budget, from £50 to £100. These concessions will be implemented with effect from July next at a cost of £128,000 in 1978 and £255,000 in a full year.