asked the Minister for Social Welfare the steps he has taken so far, and the steps which he intends to take, to eliminate the discrimination against single, married and widowed women.

I indicated in reply to questions on this subject recently that the Government, as announced in the manifesto issued prior to the General Election, are committed to working towards the elimination of discrimination against women in the field of social security. As I indicated in that reply, the removal of discrimination must be achieved in a phased and orderly fashion because of the considerable expenditure and the degree of administrative planning involved and also because of the significant changes which will have to be made in social welfare legislation. It is my intention to put appropriate proposals to the Government in the matter in due course.

Could I draw the Minister's attention to the fact that the question asks what steps he has taken so far. The Minister has not indicated that he is taking any steps to remove any of the areas of discrimination.

That is not correct. I have taken steps.

I asked the Minister if he would indicate what steps he has already taken. The Minister has not indicated any single step.

I have indicated that I have taken steps.

Such as?

I have indicated that it is my intention to put appropriate proposals to the Government in due course. I cannot put appropriate proposals to the Government until I consider them and prepare them.

The Minister has taken steps towards an intention to submit the matter to the Government.

I have taken considerable action in the matter.