HC Deb 01 July 1919 vol 117 cc776-7
74. Major CHRISTOPHER LOWTHER

asked the Pensions Minister whether he is aware that Captain R. F. G. Carter applied to the Ministry of Pensions for a post in that Ministry, and was selected for a post at the rate of £300 per annum; whether he is also aware that Captain. Carter, after having accepted the post, was questioned as to the amount of retired pay and disability pension of which he is in receipt, and that having given the information he was then informed that 10 per cent. would be deducted from his salary at the Ministry; and whether this principle governs the appointment of disabled officers to the Ministry?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY Of PENSIONS (Colonel Sir James Craig)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. By paragraph 4 of the Statutory Rules made by the Treasury under Section 6 of the Superannuation Act, 1887, where civil salary and disability or service pension together exceed £400 a year the salary must be reduced by 10 per cent., with a minimum of £400 for the total yearly emoluments. This rule is applied universally throughout the Civil Service, and, as I am informed, it can only be amended by legislation.

Major LOWTHER

Will the hon. Gentleman answer the second part of the question, whether Captain Carter was informed of this Regulation before he was allowed to accept the post?

Sir J. CRAIG

I am sorry he was not informed, but it is an old Regulation affecting all Government Departments. There was a misunderstanding.

Colonel ASHLEY

Surely the Minister is in favour of giving fair treatment to these ex-Service men. Will he not approach the Prime Minister to introduce legislation for doing away with this Regulation?

Sir J. CRAIG

That has already been done. If there are any other questions on this I hope they will be addressed to the Financial Secretary as it is a matter which affects all Government Departments.

Colonel ASHLEY

But it is a disastrous example which is set by the hon. and gallant Member's Department.

Mr. SHAW

Is not this the very thing outside employers were told was disgraceful?

Sir J. CRAIG

It is being rectified.