HC Deb 13 February 1940 vol 357 cc578-9
50. Mr. Davidson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking, in view of the call for national economy, to investigate the whole position regard- ing pensions, payable to ex-members of the judiciary, ex-Prime Ministers, and the pension payable to the present Lord Nelson?

Sir J. Simon

I see no reason for such investigation.

Mr. Davidson

Is the Chancellor aware that a great number of people who have been interested recently in pensions, and who know of pensions being paid out to men who have had good salaries all their lives, believe there is a case for investigating these pensions when the Government are investigating £26-a-year pensions?

Sir J. Simon

The provisions to which the hon. Gentleman refers—which are very limited—are quite well known, and if they are quite well known there is no reason to inquire into them.

Mr. Davidson

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.