§ 33. Mr. Ivor Thomasasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will give directions that special campaign pensions be paid irrespective of means?
§ Sir J. GriggThese pensions are in the nature of compassionate awards. Only ex-Regular soldiers with medals won before 1931, who have reached the age of sixty-five and do not draw a service pension, are eligible to be considered for the award. I do not consider it desirable to change the fundamental condition of this obsolescent class of pension.
§ Mr. ThomasDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that these old veterans deserve better of their country?
§ Sir J. GriggThat does not seem to me to be relevant. These old veterans qualified under a scheme, and they are now an obsolescent class. People who have served in modern wars are cared for otherwise. I do not think it desirable to change the system.