HC Deb 21 September 1931 vol 256 cc1267-8
44. Mr. R. MORRISON

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether a cut is proposed in the State pensions paid to ex-Lord Chancellors?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Major Elliot)

These pensions are payable under statute, and the hon. Member will see from the text of the Economy Bill that it is not proposed thereunder to reduce any existing pension.

Mr. MORRISON

Are these pensions to be paid subject to a means test?

Major ELLIOT

If there is any other question to which the hon. Member desires an answer, I shall be glad to give an answer if he will put it on the Paper.

Mr. McSHANE

Are these pensions to be reviewed at all in the light of the economy proposals of the Government?

Major ELLIOT

I have said that it is not proposed in the Economy Bill to revise the existing pensions.

Mr. McSHANE

I am asking if they are to be considered in any way with a view to a reduction?

Major ELLIOT

It was never intended to cut existing statutory pensions.

Mr. MILLS

Is there any truth in the statement that Lord Hailsham has offered the whole of his pension back?