HC Deb 17 July 1916 vol 84 cc672-3
80. Mr. MALCOLM

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether naval officers are taxed in respect of their pensions for wounds?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)

Yes, Sir.

Mr. MALCOLM

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the question of the remission of taxes?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I have already discussed the matter with certain of my colleagues, but it is necessary to discuss the matter with the War Office and the Treasury. I will do so, but I cannot give any undertaking.

89. Mr. CREAN

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will have the case of Private Michael Hurley, No. 2898, Royal Garrison Artillery, Rock Street, Kinsale, county Cork, who lost a leg from the thigh down at Hill 60, France, inquired into with a view to an increase of the small pension of 10s. 6d. granted to him in April, 1916, as this pensioner has dependent on him an aged mother and an invalid brother, and that men similarly circumstanced are in receipt of pensions from 14s. upwards?

Mr. FORSTER

Gunner Hurley has had his pension increased from 10s. 6d. to 12s. 6d. a week. The Chelsea Commissioners have no power to make any addition to a soldier's pension for dependants other than children.

Mr. CREAN

Is it suggested that that advantage will be sufficient to support this man?

Mr. FORSTER

If this soldier, or anyone writing on his behalf, communicates with the Secretary of the Royal Hospital at Chelsea, full consideration will be given to the case.

Mr. BUTCHER

Is this not a case where the Statutory Committee could give some increase?

Mr. FORSTER

Yes, they could if it was submitted to them and they found it necessary.