HC Deb 06 March 1917 vol 91 cc222-3
Mr. ASQUITH

(by Prirate Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the Ministry of Pensions Act of last Session establishing a Central Pensions Department, provides that the powers and duties of the Statutory Committee under the Naval and Military War Pensions, etc., Act, 1915, shall be exercised and performed by that Committee under the control of, and in accordance with, the instructions of a Minister of the Crown, any change is necessitated in the position of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales as chairman of the Committee?

Mr. BONARLAW

When the change in the position of the Statutory Committee referred to in the question took place, my right hon. Friend, who was then Prime Minister, felt that it was inappropriate that His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales should continue to act as chairman of the Committee after they had lost their full independence, and, acting on my right hon. Friend's advice, His Royal Highness has accordingly resigned.

I think it only right to add that during the tenure of his office His Royal Highness took deep and continuous interest in all the proceedings of the Committee, and in the performance of the first public duties of this nature which he has undertaken he has shown a zeal for the public service, and more particularly that part of it relating to the welfare of our sailors and soldiers, which may inspire the country with confidence as to the contribution to the national service that may be expected from him with increasing years.

I think I ought also to add that during His Royal Highness's tenure of office as chairman the Statutory Committee have laid the foundation of a system of pensions and allowances to our soldiers and sailors and their widows and dependants more humane and generous in its provision than any which had previously existed.

Mr. ASQUITH

Perhaps I may be allowed to associate myself with the tribute which my right hon. Friend has paid to the invaluable service rendered by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales in his important public duties.

Mr. HOGGE

In view of the fact that His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales has resigned his position as chairman of that Committee, can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Government intend to continue the system, which obviously must remain, of only having a paid vice-chairman presiding over the deliberations of that Committee?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I should like notice of that question.