§ 1. Captain BOWYERasked the Minister of Pensions what steps he is taking to increase the Voluntary Fund at his disposal?
§ The MINISTER of PENSIONS(Major Tryon)Small sums by way of donation 292 or bequest are still from time to time contributed to the Voluntary Funds referred to, but no active steps have been taken by myself, or by my predecessors, to solicit contributions to those funds, nor do I consider that it is within my province to do so.
§ Captain BOWYERIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this fund has diminished considerably during the last year; and is it not a fact that many cases can only apply to this fend for help through the Ministry; and in view of that will he make efforts to get. it increased?
§ Major TRYONYes, Sir; but I do not think it. is the duty of the State to collect money to compensate men from charitable funds. Any contributions that may arise would he welcome, but I do not think it is any part of the duty of the State to collect money for charitable purposes.
§ Captain BOWYERIs it not a fact that the right hon. Gentleman is the only individual in the country who disposes of this fund?
§ Major TRYONThis is so, but its origin must necessarily be spontaneous.
Mr. T.KENNEDYWould it not be better that the State. should discharge its obligations in this respect?