HC Deb 23 May 1946 vol 423 c538
70. Mr. Derek Walker-Smith

asked the Minister of Pensions why no adjustment has been made in the standard rate of retired pay applicable to lieutenants disabled in the 1914–18 war.

The Parliamentary Secretary Jo the Ministry of Pensions (Mr. Blenkinsop)

As the standard rate of retired pay is the same as that for lieutenants disabled in the 1939 war. no adjustment is necessary.

Mr. Walker-Smith

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether it is not a fact that this unfortunate category of officers is the only one that has not had the disability pension increased? Is that not an unfair discrimination against them?

Mr. Blenkinsop

No, Sir. The increases in pensions that were payable to other ranks will show that the officers are considerably better off, and in view of this the Government's view is that no increase in the standard rates for officers is called for.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

The hon. Gentleman has not answered the supplementary question. Can he answer it categorically?

Captain Blenkinsop

The answer is: No, Sir.