HC Deb 12 May 1909 vol 4 c1811
Mr. SNOWDEN

asked the Secretary to the Treasury how many pension officers have sent in complaints to the Board of Inland Revenue as to the inadequacy of the payment for pension work, and what number have returned their cheques for the same reason?

The SECRETARY of the TREASURY (Mr. Hobhouse)

Of the 2,583 pension officers who were awarded gratuities for pension work, 116 have made complaints as to the inadequacy of the gratuities. Of this number, four have returned their cheques.

Mr. SNOWDEN

Is it not a fact that at least one pension officer has been removed because he made a complaint?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

I have no knowledge of the fact, but I will make inquiries.

Mr. T. F. RICHARDS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these officers are afraid to make any complaint because their position is at stake?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

I have already pointed out that 116 of them have made complaints.