HC Deb 13 November 1918 vol 110 cc2653-4
9. Major Sir BERTRAM FALLE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he is aware that pensioned lieutenants and lieutenant-commanders, Royal Navy, promoted from the lower deck before the War and called up for the War are not receiving the pensions they have earned but are being given 25 per cent. of the full pay in addition in lieu thereof; and if he will see into this matter?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Under Orders in Council 8th March, 1895, 5th March, 1910, and 3rd February, 1915, retired and pensioned officers when re-employed in war or emergency, receive the pay and emoluments of their corresponding ranks on the active list, or, if greater, their retired pay, together with a bonus of 25 per cent. calculated on their full pay or retired pay as the case may be. The Rule is one which applies to all retired and pensioned naval officers re-employed during war, and not only to officers promoted from the lower deck.

Sir B. FALLE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that two First Lords of the Admiralty have said these gentlemen are entitled to their pensions and have earned them and, as a matter of fact, these gentlemen are serving their country at the rate of 5s. 6d. a day?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I cannot imagine any First Lord saying anything in violation of the Order. These gentlemen, promoted from the lower deck, are in absolutely the same position as other commissioned officers in this respect, and there is no discrimination.