§ Mr. JOHN GORDON (South Londonderry)asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether the pensions of Commissary officers in India, not deputy or assistant Commissary officers, were, in fact, increased in 1904, as stated in answer to a question on 16th November, 1911; and, if so, by what amount; what is the amount of such pensions now as compared with those fixed in 1881; are not those pensions lower than the pensions of officers holding similar rank in the home service; and, if so, will steps be taken to increase the pensions of those Commissary officers and put them on an equitable basis?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY for INDIA (Mr. Montagu)In 1904 the pensions of Commissaries paid in India were raised from Rs. 2400 to Rs. 2592. This rate is lower than the highest which it is possible for an officer holding similar rank in the home service to earn; but I am advised that the methods of calculating service for pension in the two services are so different that the rates of pay do not compare unfavourably. I will bring the hon. Member's question to the notice of the Government of India, in case they may wish to make any recommendation to the Secretary of State.
§ Mr. J. GORDONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the highest pension that can be secured is something like £216 a year; is there any appreciable difference between that and what was fixed in the year 1881; and, having regard to the increase in the cost of living, will he further consider the matter?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe suggestion of the hon. Member shall be brought to the notice of the Indian Government.
§ Mr. J. GORDONDoes the increase apply to the Commissary, or only to his deputy and assistant?
§ Mr. MONTAGUIt applies to the Commissary.