HC Deb 23 April 1923 vol 163 cc34-5
57. Lieut. - Colonel DALRYMPLE WHITE

asked the Prime Minister whether His Majesty's Government are prepared to consider the position of pre-War pensioners?

58. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the Prime Minister whether he has had an opportunity of discussing with the Chancellor of the Exchequer the unfortunate position of certain sections of pre-War pensioners; and whether he can now make a statement in reply to the deputation of Unionist Members which waited on him early in March last?

Mr. BALDWIN

His Majesty's Government have decided, after careful con- sideration, to introduce legislation with the object of improving the scale of pension increases granted to pre-War pensioners under the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1920. A Special Committee of the Cabinet will at once be set up to work out a detailed scheme by the earliest possible date, and I hope that it may be possible to bring in the Bill at an early date.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Does the right hon. Gentleman's reply relate to all classes of pre-War pensioners?

Mr. G. STEWART

Will the Royal Irish Constabularly benefit under this scheme?

Mr. BALDWIN

I think those points will have to be considered by the Committee which is to be set up.