HC Deb 30 January 1941 vol 368 cc680-1
82. Mr. Mathers

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware of the hardship suffered by pensioners of the last war existing upon small fixed allowances during this period of increased prices; and whether he will take action to remedy this position?

The Minister of Pensions (Sir Walter Womersley)

Conditions under which the pension rates may be raised are laid down in the Royal Warrant of the 6th December, 1919. The hon. Member may be assured that steps will be taken to increase the rates when the cost of living justifies it.

Mr. Mathers

Has not the Minister received representations from other quarters, for example the British Legion, that the time is now ripe for having a review of these allowances, and has he taken such appeals into consideration?

Sir W. Womersley

Yes, Sir. I have received one or two representations and I have taken them into consideration.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the Minister realise that these pensioners have received a reduction of approximately 25 per cent. in their pension owing to the increase in the cost of living?

Sir W. Womersley

No, Sir.

Sir T. Moore

Is my right hon. Friend aware that these pensioners of the last war are the only people who have received no advance since this war started?

Sir W. Womersley

They received their advance before the war.

Sir T. Moore

And a reduction.

Sir W. Womersley

No reduction.

Mr. Mathers

How much further has the cost of living to rise before any notice is taken of it in their case?

Sir W. Womersley

To the point at which it was in 1919.

83. Major Sir Jocelyn Lucas

asked the Minister of Pensions why Mr. D. F. P. Howard, late 69th Anti-Tank Regiment, Royal Artillery, Duke of Connaught's Own, who was passed A1 in 1932, in June, 1939, and in August, 1939, and who was invalided on 13th January, 1940, suffering from valvular disease of the heart, has not been granted any pension or given compensation; and whether he is now prepared to take suitable action in the matter?

The Vice-Chamberlain of the Household (Sir James Edmondson)

It has not been possible in the time available to obtain the papers regarding this case. I will, however, look into it and write to the hon. and gallant Member as soon as possible.