§ SIR EDMUND COMMERELL (Southampton)asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty, If any portion of the increase in the (Greenwich Hospital Funds will be devoted to the increase of the ago pensions now due?
MR. ASHMEAD-BARTLETT (A LORD) of the ADMIRALTY) (Sheffield, Ecclesall)It is estimated that a sum of £5,000 has been distributed in age and special pensions during the present financial year in excess of the amount so distributed in previous years; and it is hoped that this additional expenditure may be maintained. But in distributing the funds, account has to be taken of temporary abatements from the rents of the estates of Greenwich Hospital in the North of England, and of the smaller return from royalties on minerals consequent on depression in agriculture and trade. I may add that the age pension is granted to every naval pensioner who is unable to contribute to his own support, provided he is in other respects eligible.