HC Deb 22 August 1916 vol 85 c2474
47. Mr. W. THORNE

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that a number of resolutions are on the agenda for the Trades Union Congress, which will be held in Birmingham on the first Monday of September, condemning the action of the Government in not granting an extra allowance to old age pensioners in consequence of the advance in the prices of all kinds of foodstuffs during the War; and whether he can now announce that the Government intend to give a Supplementary Grant to old age pensioners during the war period?

The PRIME MINISTER

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave yesterday on this subject to the hon. Member for the Houghton-le-Spring Division.

Mr. THORNE

Does the Government recognise there is always danger if you sit on the safety-valve too long?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is a sound general observation.

Mr. KEATING

The Prime Minister says it is a general proposition. I can assure him it is a particular proposition.

HON. MEMBERS

Order, order!