§ 66. Mr. SHILLAKERasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in assessing the income of a pensioner under the Pension Increase Acts, 1920 and 1924, he will take steps to exclude from the assessment such allowances as may be given in addition to pension in respect of decorations awarded for gallantry in the field of battle?
§ Mr. SHINWELLIncreases under the Pensions Increase Acts and the Royal Warrants authorising similar increases in military pensions, are based on the recipient's means, and I see no grounds on which this particular source of income could be omitted from the calculation. Nor could special treatment, if granted, be confined to the recipients of military pensions. In these circumstances I regret that I am not in a position to accept my hon. Friend's suggestion.
§ Mr. SHILLAKERIs the hon. Member aware that these emoluments are given as an increase of pension, and that, consequently, they should not be included as part of the income for Pensions Increase Act purposes?
§ Mr. SHINWELLI am aware of the fact mentioned by the hon. Member, but there are considerable difficulties in making new arrangements in this matter.