§ 5. Sir J. D. REESasked the Secretary of State for India whether any, and, if so, what measures are contemplated for improving the position of warrant officers in India in respect of the pensions they earn, the amount there of, and the period they are required to serve; whether the increased cost of living has been taken into account and any allowance given on that account; and whether any increases of pay and pensions have been given to warrant and non-commissioned officers in the British Army since 1914?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Herbert Fisher)The Secretary of State has not at present under consideration a revision of the permanent pension rules for warrant officers of the Indian Departments, nor have allowances been granted to pensioners of these classes on account of the increased cost of living. The answer to the third clause of the question is in the affirmative. The question of the application to warrant officers of Indian Departments of the new Royal Warrant regarding disability pensions in cases arising out of this War is under reference to the Ministry of Pensions. The question whether any increases in pay should be given in certain cases has been referred to the Government of India. I shall be glad to let the hon. Member know further when a reply has been received.
§ Colonel YATEIf warrant officers are retained in the Service after their pensions has become due, will they be allowed to draw their pension from the date on which it became due?
§ Mr. FISHERPerhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman will give notice of that question.