Will there be any requirement under EC law to deal with the terrible injustice at present being experienced by unemployed widowers and deserted husbands, but especially widowers, who constitute a very special category? Regardless of whether it may be required by the EC, will the Minister say whether he will take steps this year to alleviate their plight?

The question is at present being discussed at EC level. There is no directive in existence in that area but the question of a directive is being discussed. That is the stage these discussions have reached so far.