HC Deb 14 June 1921 vol 143 cc203-4
8. Sir W. DAVISON

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the case of Captain G. B. Martin, M.C., who joined the Royal Air Force after serving for six years in the ranks of the Royal Marines; whether under existing War Office Regulations this service cannot be counted in assessing the pension to which this officer is entitled although similar service in the ranks of the Army would have counted for pension; and whether he will take immediate steps to have the Regulations in this matter altered with a view to the removal of this anomaly?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Lieut.-Colonel Stanley)

I think my hon. Friend is referring to Captain Martin, of the Manchester Regiment. The effect of the Regulations is as stated. Service in the ranks of the Marines does not count for either soldiers' or officers' Army pension. This Regulation was deliberately adopted, and it is not proposed to change it.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these anomalous Regulations between sister branches of the service cause a great deal of discontent, and surely it is not in the national interest to maintain a Regulation for which there is no reason or excuse?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

It is the same either way. Service in the Army does not count for pension in the Navy and vice versa. We must keep to the Regulations.

Sir F. HALL

If a person from one branch of the Civil Service be taken out of that branch of the service, and put into another branch of the Civil Service, does that time count for pension or not?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

I must ask for notice of that question.

Captain GEE

Does not service in the ranks in the Army count for officer's pension?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

Yes, service in the Army counts for pension in the Army.

Sir W. DAVISON

Will the hon. Gentleman consider this matter, as it is strongly felt that service in any other branch of His Majesty's forces should count for pension?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

I will consider it, but I cannot promise that it will make any difference.