HC Deb 06 May 1920 vol 128 cc2202-3
1. Mr. ROBERT YOUNG

asked the Minister of Pensions the number of persons employed by the Ministry and appointed during the year ended 31st March, 1920, at salaries over £350 per year; what was their previous experience of war pensions work or work qualifying them for such appointments; and how many are in receipt of salaries and income from other public funds, not including disability pensions?

The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. Macpherson)

The number of officers appointed to the Ministry during the year ended 31st March, 1920, and employed at salaries exceeding £350 a year is 51, namely, 13 permanent civil servants, 23 temporary officials with previous experience in other Government departments, 9 ex-Regular Army and Navy officers, and 6 temporary officials with special qualifications. It is not possible to say how many of the above-mentioned officers had previous experience of war pensions work. Approximately 15 are in receipt of income from other public funds—apart from disability pensions. These numbers exclude 552 medical officers appointed during the same period, of whom 12 are in receipt of income from other public funds.

Mr. SHORT

Can the right hon. Gentleman say from what public funds?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I cannot say offhand, and perhaps the hon. Member will give notice of the question?

Mr. YOUNG

Will preference be given to those who have no pension or income over those who have?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I do not see how that is possible.

Mr. PEMBERTON BILLING

Surely it is advisable to select from those who have served those who have no pensions or other income?

Mr. MACPHERSON

That certainly ought to be considered, but there are obviously other considerations.

2. Mr. GRANT

asked the Minister of Pensions how many female clerks are at present employed at Burton Court, Chelsea, to deal with cases for application for pensions; and if he is aware that the staff employed is greatly in excess of any possible requirements, and that one-eighth of the staff could without difficulty accomplish all there is to do?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The number of women clerks at present employed at Chelsea in connection with persion awards is 1,948. It is true that, owing to the rapid progress of decentralisation, the staff is for the moment in excess of requirements, but not by any means to the extent suggested in the question. The transfer or demobilisation of the surplus staff is proceeding.