HC Deb 14 May 1925 vol 183 cc2009-10
38. Major HORE-BELISHA

asked the President of the Board of Education, with reference to the position of the superannuated teachers who retired before 1919 and whose average pension is £37 per annum, whether there is any other reason for refusing to improve their position, except the ground of economy?

Lord E. PERCY

These teachers have received the same treatment as other classes of pensioners under the Pensions (Increase) Acts, and it would pot, in my view, be just to give them differential treatment now.

Mr. T. THOMSON

asked the President of the Board of Education whether the service of qualified teachers in appointments overseas, obtained under the auspices of the Colonial Office, is admissible for pension purposes?

Lord E. PERCY

Service as a teacher in any school or other educational institutioninany British Colony or Dependency or in India, which is maintained, aided, or under regular inspection by the Government, is regarded as qualifying service for the purposes of the Act of 1918. Perhaps I might also refer the hon. Member to Clause 20 (1) (c) of the Teachers (Superannuation) Bill now before the House. The Board also have arrangements for exchanges of teachers for one year, during which time service overseas is treated as recognised service.

Mr. JAMES BROWN

asked the President of the Board of Education how many teachers have exercised their option of retiring after completing 30 years' service before attaining the age of 60, and have thereafter on attaining the age of 60 received a pension and retiring allowance?

Lord E. PERCY

The number of teachers who, having retired from service before reaching the age of 60, received superannuation allowances on the ground of age under the School Teachers (Superannuation) Act, 1918, after attaining the age of 60, is about 1,360, of whom, approximately, 850 had completed 30 years' service. The remainder were eligible for benefits under Section 1 (1) (a) (ii) of the Act on less than 30 years' service.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the President of the Board of Education whether he is prepared to consider favourably the Amendment put forward by the four associations of teachers in secondary schools in the Teachers Superannuation Bill?

Lord E. PERCY

I am not clear which particular Amendment my hon. Friend has in mind, but all the Amendments put forward by the four associations are receiving my careful consideration.