§ 59. Mr. Tinkerasked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware of the feeling caused by the reduction of War Service Grants when the Servicemen's pay is increased; and will he consider making a 360 statement showing how the grant is made and why it is reduced.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Pensions (Mr. Paling)I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by the Deputy Prime Minister on the 7th December, 1944, to the hon. and gallant Member for King's Norton (Major Peto); and also to my reply to the hon. Member for Lowestoft (Mr. Loftus) on the same day.
§ Mr. TinkerCan we have the position re-stated in HANSARD so that the information can be given to the people?
§ 60. Captain W. T. Shawasked the Minister of Pensions whether the increase of £36 per annum announced as available for officers of the Great War who were married and in receipt of a disability pension is paid only to officers as from the date of their application; and if he will see that all the officers entitled to this pension are treated alike and that the arrears of pension, as from the date of announcement, will be paid to all those entitled to it.
§ Mr. PalingMy right hon. Friend announced the revised arrangements in this House on the 2nd December, 1943; and, in accordance with normal practice, provided application was made within two months, payment was made as from the 1st December, 1943. The announcement received publicity, but it has been suggested to my right hon. Friend that, in a number of cases, officers were unaware of the change until some time had elapsed. In these circumstances, he is now prepared to grant full arrears from December, 1943, to those who have already applied, or apply before the 31st March, 1945. After that date, payment will be made from the date of application.