HC Deb 06 April 1921 vol 140 cc255-6
42. Sir J. BUTCHER

asked the Chief Secretary the number of Irish police pensioners under 60 years of age who retired prior to 1st April, 1919, and who are debarred from receiving any benefit under the Increase of Pensions Act, 1920?

Mr. HENRY

The number of pensioners who retired prior to 1st April, 1919, in the case of the Dublin Metropolitan Police is 151. An exact figure is not available for the Royal Irish Constabulary; but it is estimated that the number in the case of that force is about 2,300.

Mr. LYNN

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that a great many of these pensioners are in a state of hardship now, and will he see that something is done to help them?

Mr. HENRY

I am quite aware of the hardship, but recently the matter has been considered by this House, and the Act of 1920, though it applied to certain persons, did not include these men.

Mr. LYNN

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman not show some practical sympathy with these men?

Mr. HENRY

I will communicate my hon. Friend's suggestion to my right hon. Friend.

Sir J. BUTCHER

Would the right hon. and learned Gentleman not make another appeal to the Treasury?