HC Deb 19 November 1953 vol 520 cc1897-8
41. Brigadier Medlicott

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware of the financial problems which face former Ministers of the Crown who have no private means and who, during many years of public service, have been unable to save for the time of their retirement owing to the high level of taxation; and if he will examine the problem with a view to initiating a suitable and adequate pension scheme for retired Ministers.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Successive Governments have concluded that no special measures on these lines could be justified, and, while I have every sympathy with former Ministers who are faced with such difficulties, I regret that I do not feel able to take a different view.

Brigadier Medlicott

As, very often, acceptance of office involves a major financial sacrifice is it not normally desirable that those holding high office under the Crown should not be under any anxiety?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I would not necessarily wish to traverse my hon. and gallant Friend's views, but, as he will appreciate, this is not a new problem, nor an easy one.

Mr. Lewis

While not disagreeing with the legitimacy of the statements contained in the Question, may I ask the Minister whether he is not aware that this also affects back bench Members? Notwithstanding the vicious and unworthy remarks of the hon. and learned Member for Hove (Mr. Marlowe), is he aware that many working men on this side of the House cannot go out and earn big fees in the Law Courts?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

This question, as I understand it, relates solely to former Ministers.