HC Deb 24 July 1918 vol 108 c1803
46. Mr. ROWLANDS

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government can now state their scheme for increased allowances to the soldiers' wives and children?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The scheme has now been sanctioned by the Government, and, with the hon. Member's permission, it will be circulated with the OFFICIAL REPORT. [See cols. 1825–1830.]

64. Colonel ASHLEY

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the amount represented by the increased separation allowances for children, plus the soldier's allotment, is being deducted from the civil pay of ex-postal telegraphists in the Army; and whether he will explain the reason for this action, in view of the terms of the Post Office circular No. 2187, of 1914, which stated that Post Office servants enlisting as office telegraphists in the Royal Engineers are allowed full civil pay in addition to military pay when called up?

The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Pike Pease)

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply given to the question on the same subject asked by the hon. Member for West Houghton on the 20th of March last. As my right hon. Friend then explained, the men in question enjoy special privileges in respect of pay. I did not consider that I should be justified in allowing their position to be still further improved. The amount of the increased allowance is therefore deducted from their civil pay, leaving the total emoluments the same as before.

Colonel ASHLEY

In view of the Circular issued in 1914, ought not the Post Office to keep its terms?

Mr. PEASE

There has been no breach of contract in regard to this, and we have not necessarily to cover all the increased charges.