§ Mr. P. A. MEEHANasked the Secretary to the Treasury if he can say how many officers are injuriously affected in salary and pension arising out of the amalgamation of the Excise and Customs Departments; whether he is aware that the enforced retirement of officers at the age of 60, but who have less than 40 years' service, injuriously affects their salary and pension, and if those officers whose length of service is between 38 and 39 years lose in salary £183 6s. 8d., and in pension £8 6s. 8d. per annum; and whether those officers, if efficient, will be permitted to continue in the service in order to complete the 40 years' service which would entitle them to full pension allowance?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSENo officers have been injuriously affected in salary in consequence of amalgamation. Ninety-four officers with less than 40 years' pensionable service have been retired or called upon to retire during the current financial year, but it is not possible to state how many of such retirements are due solely 1669 to amalgamation. The age for retirement in the Customs and Excise Service is usually 61, not 60, as stated in the question, and if an officer has not then completed 40 years' pensionable service he cannot be awarded the maximum pension. The reduction varies in amount with the officer's salary. I regret that I am unable to sanction the extension of service suggested in the final sentence of the question.
§ Mr. SNOWDENIs it not a fact that in the case where the officer has, say, 38f years' service his pension is calculated on 38 years' service, and no opportunity is given to complete 39 years' service?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI do not think the hon. Gentleman is stating the case accurately. Where it is possible under circumstances like that the officer is given an opportunity of completing the extra year so as to get the increased pension.