HC Deb 20 April 1948 vol 449 cc1607-8
19. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Pensions what was the total number of N.C.Os. and O.Rs. on the pensions in payment roll as at 31st March, 1948, and the annual cost of their pensions; how many of these men received unemployability allowance, hardship allowance, constant attendance allowance, education allowance and clothing allowance, respectively, as at 31st March, 1948; and what was the annual cost of each of these allowances.

Mr. Buchanan

As the answer contains a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

I regret that figures for 31st March, 1948, are not yet available. The total number of pensions in payment to N.C.Os. and other ranks at 31st December, 1947, was 696,327 at an approximate annual cost, including wives' and children's allowances, of £39,168,000. Particulars of the additional allowances in payment at that date are as follows:

— No. of recipients. Approximate annual cost.
£
Unemployability allowance 7,610 406,500
Special hardship allowance 1,742 49,600
Constant attendance allowance 4,100 240,000
Education allowance 300 6,300
Clothing allowance 32,686 102,900

20. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Pensions how many N.C.Os. and O.Rs. were classified as 100 per cent. disabled as at 31st March, 1948; and what was the annual cost of their pensions.

Mr. Buchanan

I regret that figures for 31st March, 1948, are not yet available. The number of N.C.Os. and other ranks in receipt of pension at the 100 per cent. rate at 31st December, 1947, was 45,940. The approximate annual cost of their pensions was £6,809,000.

Mr. De la Bère

In view of the very great problem which confronts the Minister, would he allow his thoughts to rise to the height of the situation, because if he does not do something, nothing will be done?

Mr. Buchanan

All I can say is that I find great difficulty in elevating my thoughts as high as the hon. Gentleman has elevated his, but I will do my best to follow his example.

Wing-Commander Millington

Will my right hon. Friend examine most carefully that supplementary question and his answer, and if the inference is that the amount of money should be reduced will he resist it strongly?

Mr. Buchanan

The hon. and gallant Gentleman can take it that there will be no reduction so long as I am at the Ministry.