HC Deb 26 February 1942 vol 378 cc352-3
57. Mr. Lipson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the grievance felt by retired Naval and Army officers, who served in the last war, at a cut in their pay made in 1935; that these men and their dependants are in the present war suffering financial hardship; and, as the restoration of this cut would cost only £482,000 now, rising to about £780,000 at the end of the war, will he take the necessary steps to bring this about?

Sir K. Wood

I cannot add anything to the reply on this subject which was given to my hon. Friend on 18th February by my hon. Friend the Financial Secretary to the War Office.

Mr. Lipson

What would it cost to meet all the obligations, in my right hon. Friend's opinion, after all adjustments have been made?

Sir K. Wood

I think my hon. Friend in his Question gave the figure. Of course, I have taken everything into account.

Mr. Lipson

I asked what it would cost to take all those other matters into account.

Mr. Shinwell

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate the severe hard- ship to which these people are exposed? If there was a cut in 1935 and the cost of removing it is not large, would it not be desirable to remove it?

Sir K. Wood

I appreciate what the hon. Member says, but, in fact, there was no cut in 1935. Officers' retired pay had previously fluctuated with the cost of living. In 1935 it was stabilised in common with the rates for the Fighting Services.