§ 33. Major Anstruther-Grayasked the Minister of Education how many retired teachers have applied to have their pension paid monthly instead of quarterly; and whether she will consider this matter with a view to meeting the wishes of those concerned.
§ Miss HorsbrughI have no precise record of the number of teachers who have applied for payment of their pensions monthly. In view of the additional cost of the change I should not feel justified in proposing it in the present financial circumstances of the country.
§ Major Anstruther-GrayIn view of the fact that other Departments find it possible to pay pensions monthly instead of quarterly to those who desire it, would not my right hon. Friend look into this matter again? The cost should not be very great, as only a comparatively small number of teachers feel this need?
§ Miss HorsbrughI have looked into it, and if the pensions were to be paid monthly instead of quarterly I am informed that the extra cost, apart from the extra manpower required, would be about £1 million.