HC Deb 29 May 1919 vol 116 cc1386-7
9. Mr. RONALD McNEILL

asked the Pensions Minister whether he has recently reconsidered or intends to reconsider the case for increase of pre-war pensions; and whether, in view of the 50 per cent. increase in old age pensions and the very general increase of wages in addition to war bonus in all classes of employment, men who served the country in previous wars and retired on pension prior to 1914 are alone to be debarred from receiving an increase of pension commensurate with the rise in the cost of living?

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

If my hon. Friend is referring to disability pensions I may remind him that men disabled in former wars, who are totally incapacitated or who suffer from certain specific disabilities, already have their pensions raised to the level of the present War, and to the pensions so raised the 20 per cent. bonus is added. The question of similarly increasing the pensions granted for other disabilities incurred in previous wars is under consideration.

Mr. McNEILL

Has any consideration been given to pensions which are not for disability but for active service?

Sir J. CRAIG

The Ministry only deals with disability pensions. Any question of service pensions as service should be addressed to the War Office.

Colonel YATE

Does this consideration of pre-war pensions extend to the officers or only to the men?

Sir J. CRAIG

Certainly; to both men and officers in the Navy and Army.