78. Captain COOTEasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the difference in a sergeant's retired pension between the old and new rates is nearly £100 per annum for men of equal service; and whether, with a view to removing this anomaly, he will inquire into the possibility of deducting temporarily from the new rates a sum which, added to the old rates, would put all pensioners of similar service upon an equality until such time as the country can afford to make the new rates in full universal or until pensions at the old rates cease to be payable owing to the death of the pensioners?
§ Mr. SHORTTI am aware that, owing to the great increase of police pay, there is wide difference between pensions granted before and after the increase. A Committee of the Cabinet is considering the whole subject, but I do not think the suggestion made by the hon. and gallant Member is one which could be adopted.
Captain COOTEWill my right hon. Friend undertake to make inquiries from these new rate pensioners? I think he will find considerable willingness to give up a portion of their pensions to help their less fortunate fellows.
§ Mr. SHORTTI shall be obliged if my hon. and gallant Friend will give me information on the subject.