HC Deb 18 October 1944 vol 403 cc2359-60
30. Lieutenant-Commander Hutchison

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether payment of the increased rates of pension referred to in the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1944, has now been made to all the categories of naval pensioners entitled to these increases.

Mr. Alexander

Up to now over 8,000 awards of pension at the increased rates have been made to the various categories of eligible naval pensioners. The remaining claims will be dealt with as rapidly as staff difficulties permit.

Mr. W. J. Brown

Can the Minister tell us how many claims have yet to be dealt with?

Mr. Alexander

I would like notice of that but, speaking from memory, I think about 30,000.

Mr. Brown

Then at this rate of progress it will take in this, as in other cases, about six years to wipe off the arrears?

Mr. Alexander

No, I think not.