HC Deb 29 July 1930 vol 242 cc271-2
51. Mr. C. WILLIAMS

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what is the current rate of the Civil Service bonus; and whether that bonus is given at a rate in excess of the index figure of the cost of living as at 1st July?

52. Sir GEORGE BERRY

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether, in view of the cost of living having fallen to 55 per cent. over the pre-War rate, it is proposed to adjust the Civil Service bonus in conformity with this cost?

53. Colonel GRETTON

asked the Financial Secretary to The Treasury the annual cost falling upon the taxpayer arising out of the difference of 15 points between the cost-of-living index figure of 55 and the Civil Service bonus figure of 70?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

The bonus payable during the current six months up to the 31st August next is on the basis of a cost-of-living figure of 70, which is the rounded-up average of the figures for the six months ended the 28th February last. The Government have decided that during the six months commencing on the 1st September next Civil Service bonus will be payable on the basis of a figure of 65. A variation of five points over a period of six months involves a sum estimated at about £800,000.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Am I to understand that there has been a considerable change in the Government's policy on this matter?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

No; I do not think there has been any considerable change. A decision has been taken which is similar to the decision taken last year.

Colonel GRETTON

Can the hon. Gentleman say on what basis the Government arrive at the figure of 65, when for a long period the cost-of-living index has been much below that figure?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

The Government have come to that decision just as last year they came to a decision to make it 70. This year they have come to the decision to make it 65.

HON. MEMBERS

On what basis?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

The figure for the six months would not be as much below that as is suggested on the question. It would probably be 60.

Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTE

Is it not with a view to getting votes at the next election?