HC Deb 17 June 1952 vol 502 cc968-9
19. Miss Ward

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can now make a statement on the pensions increases for retired Government and local government servants.

17. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he can yet make a statement on the results of the conference with the authorities concerned on the question of retired teachers' pensions.

Mr. R. A. Butler

A Bill dealing with these matters has been published today.

Miss Ward

Would my right hon. Friend bear in mind that though this Bill does assist certain sections of the community with low incomes, a large number of people will not benefit under this Bill. Will he therefore take some steps to deal with their predicament?

Mr. Butler

We really must give thanks for any benefits we receive, and I would remind my hon. Friend that this Bill was designed for the purpose of supplementing the pensions of existing pensioners of the public service, that it affects civil servants, teachers, local authority staff, policemen and firemen, to name the chief categories, although there are others also affected, and that the increases proposed are considerable. The Bill, as part of the general Budget plan, is designed to give what help it can in this sphere.

Mr. Gibson

Will the Bill deal with retired railway servants?

Mr. Butler

Those were not alluded to in my statement, and I think the hon. Gentleman had better examine the Bill before we take the matter any further.

Mr. Legh

Is it intended to give increases in retired pay and pensions to ex-Service officers? Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that they represent a very deserving section of the community who, unfortunately, possess very small political bargaining power?

Mr. Butler

I am glad to be reminded of them, but that is a separate question and perhaps my hon. Friend will put it down.