§ 17. Mr. SNOWDENasked the Secretary of State for War if he is now prepared to reconsider the matter of the quarterly payment of pensions to ex-soldiers and to substitute a system of weekly or fortnightly payments, in view of the facts which are constantly coming to light as to the results of the quarterly payment system?
§ Colonel SEELYAs I have explained on previous occasions, special arrangements can be made in individual cases for monthly or weekly payment of pensions. The introduction of a universal weekly or fortnightly payment is open to many objections.
MARQUESS of TULLIBARD1NEWould it not be possible to do it through the Post Office, the same as old age pensions?
§ Colonel SEELYAs I have said, it is a complicated matter, and there are many objections to making it universal. But the suggestion of the Noble Lord will be borne in mind.
§ Captain TRYONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, where private arrangements for weekly payments have been made, the men have been prevented from coming on the rates?
§ Colonel SEELYI am glad to know that it has had a good effect, and I hope that the system may be extended in all suitable cases.
§ Colonel YATEWill the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to extend it?
§ Colonel SEELYI think I have gone as far as it is possible to go, bearing in mind the objections which I have stated in Debate, a copy of which I shall be glad to furnish to the hon. and gallant Member.