§ 44. Mr. VINCENT KENNEDYasked why the pension has been withdrawn from John T. Smith, No. 1,877, Aughaloora, county Cavan; has this pensioner's mean & increased since the pension was originally granted to him; and, in view of the widespread dissatisfaction at the recent action of pension officers in Cavan, will he have inquiry made into the complaints which have already reached him?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThis man's pension was disallowed by the Local Government Board on the ground that his means at the time the question was raised exceeded the statutory limit. They know nothing as to-his previous income. Pension officers are not under my control.
§ Mr. FLAVINAs this question of means has been causing a great deal of discussion and dissatisfaction in Ireland, will the right hon. Gentleman inform the Members of the Irish party upon which basis these pensions are granted?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe question is a very difficult one to determine. The pension officers have to act on certain rules, and I will explain them to any hon. Member who wishes to know them.