§ 8. Sir R. Aclandasked the Minister of Pensions whether he has considered the case sent to him relating to a Royal Navy reservist, resident in Swanscombe. who, on being called for 18 months service, receives from his employer a relatively small sum from a balance of civil 1885 pay scheme, and as a consequence is not entitled to apply for any National Service grant at all; and whether he will make a statement.
Mr. AmoryYes, Sir. The scheme of National Service grants is intended to relieve cases of serious hardship which might otherwise arise among the families and dependants of National Service men and reservists recalled to the Forces. If an employer is operating a scheme whereby Service pay is made up to basic civil pay, no serious hardship should arise. It was therefore decided, in consultation with the Service Departments, on whose behalf I administer National Service grants, that the grants shall not be payable to Service men who are eligible for balance of civil pay from their employers.
§ Sir R. AclandDoes that not mean that a man, in whose circumstances there would be attracted a National Service grant of 20s. or 30s. to meet his real needs, is in the position that he will get nothing at all if he happens to have 6s. or 7s. under a balance of civil pay scheme, and is it not a real hardship and a case in which the Minister should make up the difference?
Mr. AmoryThe position which I described is the present position. I recognise that there is something in what the hon. Baronet has said, and I am looking further into this kind of case.