HC Deb 09 June 1921 vol 142 cc2038-9
16. Sir J. BUTCHER

asked the Chief Secretary whether he has further considered the cases of those pensioners of the Royal Irish Constabulary who are separated from their wives and who receive nothing whatever from their wives' income, but are prevented by the definition of means in the Pension (Increase) Act, 1920, which includes wife's income, from obtaining any increase of pension; and whether, in view of the smallness of the pensions of these men and the impossibility of they getting employment by reason of their service with the Royal Irish Constabulary, he will bring in legislation to amend the definition of means in the 1920 Act?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him on this subject by the Financial Secretary to the Treasury on the 17th March, to which I can add nothing.

Sir J. BUTCHER

Has the right hon. Gentleman himself further considered the condition of these pensioners, and is it not deplorable?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I have personally considered it, and have made recommendations to the Treasury. It means a further expenditure of public money, and I see no desire on the part of the Treasury or of this House to agree to that.

Captain REDMOND

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the whole question of the pensions of the Royal Irish Constabulary, and will he not exercise his influence, if any, with the Treasury in this respect?

17. Sir J. BUTCHER

asked the Chief Secretary whether he has further considered the cases of pensioners of the Royal Irish Constabulary who are in receipt of very small pensions, often under £50 a year, and who, owing to the age limit in the Pensions Increase Act, 1920, are unable to obtain any increase of pension, and who, owing to their service in the Royal Irish Constabulary are wholly unable to obtain employment, and are, with their families, in a state bordering on starvation; and whether he will bring in legislation to remove the age limit or to give power to dispense with such limit in proper cases?

Sir H. GREENWOOD

I regret that I am unable to add anything to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member's question on this subject on the 3rd March last.

Sir J. BUTCHER

Could the right hon. Gentleman once more try to bring a little influence to bear on the Treasury?

Colonel NEWMAN

How does he think that a man can keep himself and his wife on £50 a year?