§ 4. Mr. MARJORIBANKSasked the Secretary of State for India for what reason the pensions of ex-officers in the Indian Army have recently been reduced; and whether the reduction is on a different scale for different ranks?
§ Mr. BENNThese pensions are subject to review every three years on account of variations in the cost of living, but for special reasons explained in Army Orders, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy, the full effect of the cost-of-living reduction that was due in July, 1930, has been deferred for 12 months, and to that extent officers have benefited. The principle on which the reduction is applied is the same in all ranks, though there are differences in the method of its application.
Mr. MARJORIBANKWill the right hon. Gentleman explain why the reduction has been less in the case of a full colonel than in the case of a lieutenant-colonel?