§ 38. Sir HENRY CRAIKasked the Pensions Minister when he expects to be in a position to publish the new Warrant in regard to pensions for officers and nurses?
§ The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. Barnes)I regret that the Warrant for officers and nurses has been delayed owing to unexpected difficulties, but I think a satisfactory settlement is now in sight, and I hope to lay the document before the House within the next fortnight. I can assure the hon. Baronet that publication will not be delayed for a moment longer than is absolutely necessary. I should also like to assure my hon. Friend that beneficiaries will suffer no disadvantage, as payment under the new scales will operate as from 1st April.
§ Sir H. CRAIKWill the right hon. Gentleman keep in view the fact that the work of the Officers' Pensions Committee is greatly hindered by the delay of the Warrant?
§ Mr. BARNESI think we shall put every facility at the disposal of the Committee to see that the new arrangements are made to square with the new Warrant.