HC Deb 02 June 1942 vol 380 cc521-2
53. Commander Sir Archibald Southby

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the disparity in the emoluments enjoyed by those in civilian employ and those serving in the Forces and the hardships thereby entailed, particularly as regards the discharge of such obligations as mortgages, he will consider increasing the pay of those serving in His Majesty's Forces, either by additional weekly payments to the individual or else by instituting a system of deferred payment which would be received in a lump sum by a man on demobilisation?

Mr. Attlee

My hon. and gallant Friend will recollect that the emoluments of the Forces were reviewed by His Majesty's Government a few months ago and that a number of improvements, including the institution of the post-war credit, were announced by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on 10th February last. I cannot in these circumstances undertake now to review the matter afresh. As regards the discharge of financial obligations by members of the Forces, the improved arrangements for war service grants are designed to prevent hardship from this cause.

Sir A. Southby

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that the discrepancy in the payment made to one man in the Army as compared with another man who is doing the same job leads to a considerable amount of soreness, and is he aware that the disparity in payment between men who are risking their lives in the service of the country and those in industry is a source of considerable uneasiness throughout the country?

Mr. Shinwell

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Labour Party Conference last week asked for an increase in the pay of these men, and will he take note of that?

Mr. Attlee

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Buchanan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is still considerable feeling in the country about the treatment of Service men and their dependants, particularly in regard to investigations into their family means? Will he take steps to look into the matter and re-examine it, with a view to an early decision?

Mr. Attlee

I will certainly take note of any points which my hon. Friend brings before me.

Mr. Buchanan

Will the right hon. Gentleman not look into the general question himself? Is he not aware that great movements of different types in this country are feeling keenly about this matter?