§ MR. H. H. FOWLER (Wolverhampton, E.)I beg to ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce a measure relating to the Superannuation of Civil Servants, in accordance with the Report of the Royal Commissions on Civil Establishments; and whether he will lay upon the Table a Paper showing in what manner the recommendations of the Royal Commission, with respect to the Civil Service, have been dealt with?
§ MR. GOSCHENIn view of possible delay before a new Superannuation Bill could become law, the Government have taken steps whereby effect has already been given to the main recommendations of the Royal Commission on the subject of Civil superannuation. Retirement at the age of 65 has become compulsory for officers above the grade of the second division. Abolition of office no longer entitles the retiring officer to a special rate of pension. Arrangements have been made whereby the medical certificate of a retiring officer can, if necessary, be tested by independent medical investigation. No appointment made since the Report of the Commission has entitled the holder to a special rate of pension on the ground of the professional nature of his duties. Her Majesty's Government would be glad to ask Parliament to give legislative effect to these regulations, but I doubt very much whether it would be possible to pass a Bill during the present Session. I propose shortly to lay upon the Table a Paper showing in what manner the recommendations of the Royal Commission with respect to the Civil Service have been dealt with.