§ 10. Mr. Lewisasked the Minister of Pensions the estimated cost to his Department of granting an extra 10s. to all totally disabled ex-Service pensioners in the week preceding the Coronation.
§ Mr. LewisIn view of the fact that that would be comparatively a very small sum spread over the whole expenditure and that these people have suffered grievous injury, does not the Minister think that in this instance he could ask his right hon. Friend the Chancellor to agree to give him his £25,000 with which to bring a little joy to the homes of these disabled ex-Service men?
Mr. AmoryI am sure we all sympathise with and applaud the idea behind the hon. Gentleman's suggestion, but I have no authority under which I could make a payment of that kind at the present time. Even if I had, it would be open to repercussions right outside the confines of my Department.
§ Mr. LewisIs the Minister aware that if he tried to take the necessary powers he would receive the immediate support and unanimous approval of this House? Will not he do it?