§ 69. Colonel ASHLEYasked the Pensions Minister whether, in view of the fact that disability pensions are similar in nature to payments made under the Workmen's Compensation Act, the Government has now decided to take steps to free such pensions from liability to forfeiture on the recipient being convicted of a serious offence?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI have now considered this matter, and I have given directions which will ensure that, while the pension of the man himself will be suspended during the term of imprisonment, the wife and children of the pensioner will continue to draw their allowances. I also propose to modify the present practice with regard to the probationary period which, in many cases, is required to elapse before the pension is 401 restored. In future, except in the extreme case of conviction for treason, the pension will be restored immediately on the man's release from imprisonment.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEWhen will it come into force?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSIt shall come into force as soon as the administrative instructions have been given. I should think in about a fortnight or so.