HC Deb 03 July 1930 vol 240 c2142
56. Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Minister of Health whether he will reconsider his decision in the case of Mr. H. M. Foord, of 5, Stapylton Road, Barnet, Herts, who is 87 years of age and was over 24 years in the King's Royal Rifle Corps, and who, because he was awarded a meritorious service medal, has had both his and his wife's old age pension reduced from 6s. to 4s.?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I have no power to reconsider my decision which by the terms of Section 7 (2) of the Old Age Pensions Act, 1908, became final and conclusive. It will, of course, be open to Mr. Foord to raise a question for a pension at an increased rate, if at any time he should consider that his yearly means as calculated under the Old Age Pensions Acts, 1908 to 1924, do not exceed £36 15s.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is it not really a crying scandal that because this man has been awarded a meritorious service medal his old age pension and that of his wife should be reduced?

Mr. GREENWOOD

That may be so, but I was not responsible for that legislation.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman not responsible for taking steps to put it right?