§ 8. Sir JOHN RUTHERFORDasked the Pensions Minister whether soldiers working on the land in uniform and under military discipline are not allowed to draw any war gratuity in respect of the time so served, even although they may be suffering from the effects of wounds or illness due to military service?
Captain GUEST (Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury)Myright hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. Soldiers employed on agriculture work do not count such service for war gratuity after three months continuous civil employment. If they are suffering from disabilities due to war service which render them unable to earn a full civil wage, they can claim examination with a view to discharge to pension.
§ Sir J. RUTHERFORDWhy is the time not counted after three months?
Captain GUESTAfter the three months they are in receipt of full civil pay. It is not considered reasonable that they should ask for a gratuity as well.
§ 13. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked the Pensions Minister whether, in view of the fact that there is considerable discontent with the war gratuity among the men who joined the forces at the commencement of hostilities, a larger gratuity can be given to those who enlisted in the early years of the War?
Captain GUESTMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. The war gratuity, as already announced, increases with length of service. The scale was decided upon by the Government after very full consideration of all the circumstances, and I am not prepared to reopen the matter.