50. Lieut.-Colonel Sir William Allenasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that pensioners who are looking forward to an increase under the Pensions (Increase) Act are awaiting information as to when and how they may receive information regarding the increase to which they are entitled; and will he publish this information.
§ Sir J. AndersonThe interval which has elapsed since the passage of the Pensions (Increase) Act is regrettable but, I am 591 afraid, inevitable. The necessary Treasury Regulations under the Act were made and presented to Parliament on 20th June. Since then the application forms have been printed and delivered to the Departments concerned. The forms are now being distributed to the pensioners and on return will be dealt with as rapidly as present staffing difficulties permit. Increases, when granted, will take effect from 1st January, 1944, so that the pensioners will not be prejudiced by the time required for those various processes.
§ Professor SavoryMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether these forms have reached Ulster for the Royal Irish Constabulary?
§ Sir J. AndersonThere is no reason to think they have not.
§ Mr. R. J. TaylorWill the right hon. Gentleman see that sufficient publicity is given to his answer, because there is great perturbation amongst these people, who are at a loss to know why they have never had any information?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe forms are in process of issue now, and everyone concerned will very soon know, exactly what steps he should take. I hope, however, that the Question and answer will serve to allay any distress there may be.
§ Mr. W. J. BrownCan the Chancellor of the Exchequer say whether the forms that are being issued will give the applicant for an increased pension, information as to what he will be entitled to under the Pension (Increase) Act? Many of us are getting scores of letters asking what is the amount to which they are entitled.
§ Sir J. AndersonI will see that my hon. Friend has a copy of the form.