§ 30. Mr. PETOasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that certain local authorities have in many cases granted no increase of pension under the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1920, and that police pensioners of over 60 are in receipt of pensions of under £31 a year and of over 70 pensions under £40 a year; and whether he can take any steps to obtain relief for these pensioners pending further legislation?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am aware that a few police authorities have not granted any increase to pensioners who are eligible under the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1920; but I am advised that the matter is one in which the Act gives them a discretion. The police authorities concerned have on several occasions been asked to reconsider their decision, but as the Act stands there is no further action that I can take.
§ Mr. PETOMay I have the opportunity of bringing before the Committee set up to consider this question evidence on the cases referred to?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI should be glad if my hon. Friend will speak to me on the subject.
§ Mr. HAYESIn view of the fact that it is owing to the discretionary power given under the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1920, that these injustices are done to the old police pensioners, will the right hon. Gentleman, in the new legislation which we understand is to come before the House, make provision for the compulsory recognition of the needs of these people, and will it be retrospective, and have effect upon the authorities in considering the cases?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI cannot give that pledge off-hand, but I will consider the matter.