HC Deb 10 July 1919 vol 117 cc2003-4
46. Major Sir B. FALLE

asked the Prime Minister if he can make any statement or suggestion regarding the old pensioners, Royal Navy, meaning all those pensioners over the age of fifty-five in 1914; and if he can hold out the hope that these men who have served their country will be considered in a pension scheme and pensioned on the new basic rate?

101. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Government have now reconsidered their decision with regard to including the old pensioners, i.e., men over fifty-five, in the new scale of pensions; and, if so, what is the result of their reconsideration?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The Government have carefully considered this question and have decided that they would not be justified in adopting the suggestion of my hon. Friends. It would not be possible to make a distinction between the pensioners referred to in these questions and all other pensioners, and it must be remembered that all pensioners who have served in the War will receive the benefit of the new rates.

Sir B. FALLE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the intense disappointment which his answer will create in the great Service which beyond all others saved this country in the War?

Mr. BONAR LAW

This question has been most carefully considered by the Cabinet. We know there is hardship but it is not confined to the classes referred to, and though personally we should be as glad to do it as my hon. Friend himself, the Government has decided that it would not be justified.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Will my right hon. Friend take into consideration that a great number of other pensioners, including Civil Service pensioners, desire to have similar concessions made; and is he-aware that the opinion of the House is three to one in favour of these pensioners receiving their allowance, and will he not reconsider the question in view of the fact that it would cost so very little money to the State?

Mr. BONAR LAW

That is a great mistake. It will cost a great deal of money. We really have taken into account all the factors in the case.

Sir F. HALL

If all the sailors who have served in the War are to have pensions on an increased basis will the police who also served during that time and retired previous to 1st September, 1918, have their pensions also calculated on the same basis?

Mr. BONAR LAW

That question just shows the reality of the answer I have given. I think it is quite justifiable that there should be a distinction between those who have risked their lives in the War and the others, and that is the only distinction.