HC Deb 29 May 1907 vol 174 c1628
SIR GEORGE SCOTT ROBERTSON (Bradford, Central)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that there are many aged soldiers of excellent character and good record in extreme poverty; and if he will consider the desirability of granting such ancient servants of the Crown, when not in the workhouse, a pension after sixty-five, even if they are not in possession of a medal.

MR. HALDANE

The grant of pensions to old soldiers merely on the ground of age and circumstances and without regard to service would involve a large expenditure, and a wholly new principle. There are other classes in the community not less interested in the question than soldiers.

MR. BYLES (Salford, N.)

Will the right hon. Gentleman communicate with the Patriotic Fund Commission and ascertain if they have not large resources which may be available for this purpose?

[No Answer was returned.]