HC Deb 21 May 1940 vol 361 cc19-20
38. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Prime Minister whether he will review the payments that are made to members of all the armed Forces and the allowances made to the dependants; and take early steps to increase the payments and allowances?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)

I have been asked to reply. There have been a number of improvements recently made in the conditions of service of members of the armed Forces and I do not think a review of the pay and allowances is now called for.

Mr. Smith

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the deep resentment which finds expression among the dependants of our men who are serving in the Armed Forces, and against the application of the household means test in particular, and in view of that will he reconsider his answer?

Sir K. Wood

In November last the allowances for children were substantially increased, and as regards dependants a scheme of allowances for them was applied at the outbreak of war. Certain concessions in this respect have been granted quite recently.

Mr. Stephen

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether he has had any representations from the Labour Ministers who have entered the Cabinet?

Mr. Davidson

Will the Minister say whether any changes are contemplated with regard to the taking away of taxes imposed on soldiers' cigarettes?

Sir K. Wood

That is another matter.

Mr. Thorne

But would it not be very much better to do this. Although it may cost a few millions it would give great satisfaction to the soldiers?

Sir K. Wood

I know we all feel that, but there has been a substantial number of improvements recently.

Mr. Lawson

Is not the Minister aware that it would not cost very much to give the kind of allowances given for a soldier's parent as in the last war when an allotment was made, and that it would give a great deal of satisfaction?

Sir K. Wood

I think that if my hon. Friend compares the position in the last war with the position in this he will see an improvement.

Mr. Lawson

Is the Minister aware that concessions were made which were much appreciated but that there was a feeling that allowances for the parent did not receive any consideration at all?

Sir K. Wood

You can take a particular instance, but we must take the whole matter together?

Mr. E. Smith

In view of the feeling in the country I beg to give notice that I will raise the question on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment?