§ 55. Mr. W. J. Brownasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he will be able to give the result of the Govern ment's consideration of the position of retired State servants in respect of the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1944.
§ Mr. DaltonI cannot yet name a date.
§ Mr. BrownIn view of the fact that three months have elapsed since we were given an assurance that the Government would consider this matter with all possible speed, cannot the Chancellor tell us when we are likely to hear the result?
§ Mr. DaltonNo, Sir, but I can say that we cannot legislate this Session. The position is safeguarded by the operation of the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1944, which has been extended to 31st March,
§ Mr. BrownDoes the Chancellor not realise that the assurance given to this House was that what would be considered was whether the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1944, ought not to be substantially modified and improved, and that this would be considered before the Act expired? Is the Chancellor going back on his word?
§ Mr. BrownMay I give notice that in view of the breach of faith to the House involved in the Chancellor's reply, I will raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment?