Post-war Credits

HC Deb 16 March 1950 vol 472 cc1251-2

62. Mr. Ralph Morley

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he proposes to release post-war credits to lower age groups than at present.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Douglas Jay)

I cannot anticipate my right hon. and learned Friend's Budget statement.

Mr. Morley

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is a good deal of disappointment, indeed resentment, at the failure to honour post-war credits? Will he communicate this feeling to his right hon. and learned Friend with a view to its consideration before the Budget statement?

Mr. Jay

I will certainly communicate the remarks of my hon. Friend to the Chancellor.

Mrs. Middleton

Even if it is not possible just now to extend the income groups receiving post-war credits, will my hon. Friend take into account the possibility of paying them at the time when estates are being wound up?

Mr. Jay

I will take that into account.

Lieut.-Commander Braithwaite

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that during the election the Foreign Secretary, in reply to a question at Woolwich, said that if the Government were returned these matters would be examined immediately? Will the hon. Gentleman undertake that the Budget statement will contain the view of the Government on this important problem?

Mr. Jay

No, I can give no undertaking, but the matter is being examined.