HC Deb 23 April 1951 vol 487 cc18-9
41. Captain Ryder

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the de creased value of the superannuation allowances paid to retired railway clerks due to the rising cost of living; and whether he will institute an investigation into this matter.

Mr. Barnes

I am aware, of course, of the effect of rising prices on those living on fixed incomes, but if an investigation were undertaken it would be a matter for the British Transport Commission and not for me.

Captain Ryder

I am not clear whether the Minister holds himself responsible for the welfare of these employees of the railways or not, but if the whole of the assets of the railways are taken over, should not the liabilities also be taken over? Would not it be wise to have an inquiry?

Mr. Barnes

I would remind the hon. and gallant Gentleman that these funds are already in heavy deficit, but in any case it is a matter for the Commission to determine.

Mr. David Renton

When the right hon. Gentleman says that this is a matter for the Commission to determine does he ignore the pledges he gave when the Transport Bill was before the House, that those whose superannuation funds were taken over from the old railway companies would have their pensions adequately protected?

Mr. Barnes

The hon. Member is wrong. I said that they would be protected as they were taken over, but this suggests an alteration. They have been fully safeguarded as they prevailed at the time the Commission took over.

Sir John Mellor

How can the Minister now repudiate the responsibility for this matter, when about 18 months ago he debated it with me at some length upon the Adjournment?

Mr. Barnes

Whenever a matter affecting transport is raised on the Floor of the House, I have to put the case of the Transport Commission, but it does not affect the position that if any adjustment is to be made in this matter it is their responsibility.

Mr. Harrison

Will my right hon. Friend consider increasing the freight rate from 10 to 12 per cent. to meet additional pensions for these people?

Mr. Barnes

That appears to me to be another matter.

Captain Ryder

Would the right hon. Gentleman also represent the case of the railway superannuitants to the Transport Commission?