HC Deb 02 March 1920 vol 126 c228
28. Viscountess ASTOR

asked the Secretary of State for War what is the amount of pension due respectively to the widow of a lieutenant-general, of a major, and of a private soldier, who died before 1914; and whether, in view of the present cost of living, His Majesty's Government has any intention of raising the amounts?

Sir A. WILLIAMSON

As all cases of pensions where the death was due to war are dealt with by the Ministry of Pensions, I conclude that the reference is to cases where the husband died from natural causes. In such cases a compassionate grant is made to the widows of officers, if their pecuniary circumstances justify an award. The rate is: for the widow of a lieutenant-general, £120; for the widow of a major, £70.

Captain LOSEBY

Could not facilities be given at an early date for a discussion of the whole of this problem of military emoluments, and as to the way they were assessed before 1914?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. and gallant Gentleman must give notice of that question.