§ 34. Mr. Shepherdasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to how many ex-Lord Chancellors pensions are now being paid; and the present total cost per year.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterPensions are now being paid to three former Lord Chancellors. The total cost is £13,750 a year.
§ Mr. ShepherdIs there any qualifying period for this pension, as in the case of Prime Ministers?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterAs I understand, No, Sir.
§ Sir W. WakefieldIs that the gross figure, or has taxation been taken into account?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterThat is the gross figure. I could not give the net cost for a limited number of individuals without entering into their personal affairs.
§ Sir R. BoothbyIs it not a fact that ex-Lord Chancellors give continuous service in the House of Lords and the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIt is certainly a fact that, subject to other public duties which they have, the noble and learned Lords have rendered that assistance from time to time.