HC Deb 14 May 1914 vol 62 cc1290-1
58. Mr. BRIDGEMAN

asked the President of the Board of Education if he can state now what he will be able to do to augment the pensions of teachers who retired from elementary schools before 1912?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. J. A. Pease)

I regret to say that the Departmental Committee have reported that the money which was placed at my disposal was insufficient to provide any benefits beyond those secured by the Act of 1912.

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Was it difficult then to secure these benefits?

Mr. PEASE

Certainly, and for some years to come.

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Is there any prospect of any other fund being used for the purpose?

Mr. PEASE

I am in communication with the Treasury, but, as I am informed that one of their representatives was on the Committee, I have nothing further to communicate at present.

Mr. CROOKS

Promises have been given from time to time that these pensioners would be considered. Have we to lose all hope of their getting anything?

Mr. PEASE

In the event of their being any margin after the actuarial examination of the figures, they will have a share of that margin. If there is no margin, there is nothing to share.

Mr. CROOKS

Increase the Grant then!