§ 13. Mr. Bingasked the Secretary of State for War what extra-statutory pensions are paid by his Department; the names of the recipients and the nature of the service in regard to which these pensions are paid; and whether it is intended to seek statutory authority for their continuance.
§ Mr. BellengerI presume my hon. Friend has in mind the provision made in Vote 10P of Army Estimates 1947–48 for the grant of extra-statutory pensions to two former officers of the Polish Forces: The officers in question are General Anders and Admiral Swirski. The circumstances in which the awards have been made are explained in the note to the Estimate, and their continuance from year to year will be subject to approval of the provision in future Estimates. No other similar awards are in payment from Army funds; 8 should any be proposed, authority for the expenditure will be similarly sought in Army Estimates.
§ Mr. BingWill my right hon. Friend consider the possibility of making similar extra-statutory grants to British soldiers and to those who, for example, such as prisoners of war, are now not paid the rate for their rank?
§ Mr. BellengerI think my hon. Friend should bring any particular cases to my notice. I am only concerned to deal with the two officers who are the subject matter of this Question.
§ Brigadier PetoWould the right hon. Gentleman say why an Admiral is paid out of Army funds?
§ Mr. BellengerNo, Sir, I cannot without notice.