HC Deb 20 March 1918 vol 104 cc977-8
44. Mr. WATT

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether his attention has been called to the fact that in the large towns of Scotland 70 per cent. of the cases in which children are supplied with boots or clothing, or both, by the school boards they are children of men serving with the Colours; and whether there is in contemplation the raising of the allowances in view of the enhanced cost of living?

Mr. FORSTER

I have seen a statement to that effect relating to Glasgow, and it is receiving consideration.

Mr. HOGGE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the amount of milk allowed by the Food Controller exceeds the amount of the separation allowance?

Mr. FORSTER

I will have that looked into.

48. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Prime Minister whether the Treasury has turned down the proposed increases in pensions suggested by the Minister of Pensions; whether all of these have been refused and, if so, which; and whether he proposes to make any statement on the Adjournment Debate as to the intentions of the Government, particularly with reference to the present very inadequate pensions to widows and dependants of men who have saved the country?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have adopted precisely the same course in regard to the proposed new Warrant which I took last year. It was first examined by the Treasury, and has now, as was done last year, been submitted to a Committee of Ministers appointed by the Cabinet. They will deal with the subject as quickly as possible, but, as a very large sum of money is involved, it is obvious that it must be carefully examined.

Mr. HOGGE

Does the right hon. Gentleman propose to make any statement on this subject on the Adjournment Debate, as I suggest?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No. I can make no statement except that the subject is being most carefully examined. I may say this also, that if there is any idea that because any particular person is Chancellor of the Exchequer he has less sympathy than other hon. Members, it is quite untrue as far as I am concerned.

Mr. HOGGE

I beg to give notice that I will raise this question on the Motion for Adjournment.

Mr. PENNEFATHER

Will the right hon. Gentleman follow the precedent of Last year and introduce the Royal Warrant in this House in such a manner that it can be discussed before being formally presented in a form which cannot be altered?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I will consider that, but it cannot possibly be ready before the Recess, so that there is plenty of time.