§ 41. Colonel ASHLEYasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the marked 1385 increase in the cost of living since the disablement pensions were fixed in September, 1919, as admitted in the case of the coal miners, he will consider an increase in disablement pensions in proportion as the cost of living has risen since that date?
§ Major TRYONI must refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave to the hon. Member for East Edinburgh on the 27th instant, a copy of which I am sending to him.
§ Colonel ASHLEYIs the Committee's decision that you will do nothing for these disabled men, and will you deny to them what you give to the able-bodied miner?
§ Major TRYONThe Ministry are watching the movements of the cost of living. I am not convinced that frequent changes of pension up and down to follow the cost of living would be in the long run in the interests of the men.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEWhy should you give to the miners what you would not give to the disabled pensioners?
§ Major TRYONI am not aware that I gave anything to the miners.
§ Mr. BILLINGIf you cannot control the miners will you try to control to some extent the cost of living, or else give some consideration to these pensioned men?