§ 5. Mr. Lipsonasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the need for an increase in the rates of pay of officers of junior rank, and of the allowances for their dependants; and will he take steps to bring this about in the near future?
§ Mr. EdenI have been into this matter and am not convinced that the position 1100 of junior officers, in relation to that of the rest of the community, is such as to justify an increase of pay and allowances at present. In special cases of hardship due to their war service, officers like other ranks have access to the War Service Grants Advisory Committee.
§ Mr. LipsonIs my right hon. Friend aware that his answer will give very widespread disappointment, seeing that there has been an increase in the cost of living and that the Budget has added burdens to serving officers; and will he not reconsider this matter?
§ Mr. EdenI have really considered it very carefully, and my hon. Friend will, I know, bear in mind that these officers receive many allowances free of tax.
§ Mr. LyonsCan the right hon. Gentleman say in how many cases grants have been made to junior officers?