§ 21. Sir JAMES REMNANTasked the Home Secretary how many police authorities have increased the pensions of retired police officers in accordance with the provisions of the Police (Pensions) Act, 1920; how many police authorities have refused to give any increase whatsoever; how many have given less than the percentage increase authorised by Parliament; how many have not yet paid the money duo to pensioners; and if he will give the names of the respective authorities in each case?
§ Sir J. BAIRDI have not got complete particulars, but I will obtain a return and will communicate with my hon. and gallant Friend.
§ Sir J. REMNANTCan my hon. and gallant Friend make a statement, in view of what took place in Committee on the Bill, whether these police authorities have a discretion or not to grant an increase 259 on the pension? I ask the question because the hon. Baronet himself was present in Committee when the Solicitor-General said "shall" and "may" to all intents and purposes meant the same thing, and they gave a pledge to the Committee that "may" should have the same effect as "shall."
§ Sir J. BAIRDPerhaps my hon. Friend will allow me to wait until I have the information complete, when I will let him have it.
§ Sir J. REMNANT rose
§ Mr. SPEAKERWe have 150 questions on the Paper.
§ Sir J. REMNANTAs this affects not only 150, but many thousands, may I not be allowed to put a further question?