HC Deb 17 April 1918 vol 105 cc401-2
53. Mr. PETO

asked the Minister of Pensions if he can make any statement as to the revision of the scale of pensions to widows of men who lost their lives in the Boer War, and as to the date from which the new scale will operate?

Mr. HODGE

The pensions of the widows of men who lost their lives informer wars are about to be increased by such an amount as will ensure to each widow a total sum of 13s. 9d. a week (including any pension or allowance she may receive from the funds of the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation or other funds raised by public subscription). A further sum of 1s. 3d. a week is added when the widow attains the age of 45. Any allowances for children which are still in course of issue will be continued under former arrangements.

At the same time, the pensions of soldiers or sailors who were discharged as unfit for further service on account of disabilities incurred in former wars, and who are now by reason of such disabilities totally incapacitated from earning a livelihood, will be raised to the level of the minimum pensions for the highest degree of disablement which are payable under the Warrants relating to the present War, according to the rank of the soldier or sailor at the time of his discharge.

The increases of pension will be payable as from the 1st of next month.

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what will be the total cost of this increase?

Mr. HODGE

No; I could not say, but I will be very glad, if the right hon. Gentleman puts down a question, to give the approximate cost.

General McCALMONT

Are we to understand from the answer that officers are not to participate in these revised pensions?

Mr. HODGE

This Warrant does not deal with officers. I really could not say what the practice has been so far as officers are concerned in respect of former wars; but if the hon. and gallant Gentleman puts down a question, I will endeavour to obtain any information that he desires.

Mr. ARNOLD

Can the right, hon. Gentleman say when the new Royal Warrant for the revised scale of pensions will be available?

Mr. HODGE

From the first of next month.