HC Deb 23 May 1950 vol 475 cc1821-2
13. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of discontent among civilian employees of the United Kingdom War Department in Ceylon, whose employment has been, or will be, terminated; and if he has considered the possibility of increasing the gratuity for those affected.

Mr. M. Stewart

Yes, Sir. A substantial improvement in the gratuity terms provided for in the regulations under which these employees serve has already been announced. It is regretted that no further improvement can be made.

Mr. Sorensen

Is this a response to the discontent and to certain representations then made, or was it just the reverse?

Mr. Stewart

It was on 3rd April that the concession was announced and we were following very largely the advice offered by the Commander-in-Chief, Middle East Land Forces.

Mr. Sorensen

Has the hon. Gentleman any reason to believe now that this is acceptable and satisfactory to the complainants?

Mr. Stewart

I believe that the complainants would have preferred certain other proposals, under which some employees would have been better off and others worse.