HC Deb 24 July 1916 vol 84 cc1320-1
57. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of altering the constitution of the Chelsea Commissioners so as to include civilian representation?

Mr. FORSTER

As at present advised, I do not think it necessary to add to the number of civilians, who now constitute about one-third of the Commission.

Mr. HOGGE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that all the civilians on this Committee are connected with the War Office and that, in fact, there is no civilian at all on the Committee?

Mr. FORSTER

I do not think it improbable, when you are dealing with Army pensions, that the majority of members should be representatives of the War Office. My hon. Friend is quite in error in thinking that there are no civilians on the Committee.

Mr. HOGGE

I have examined every name on the Committee and there is no name that is unconnected with one of the Departments. Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these pensions are now paid over a much wider area and that therefore there ought to be civilian representation; and is he also aware that the Treasury has not yet appointed its representative?