§ 18. Mr. Simmonsasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance to what extent the proposed increases in war pensions and allowances are required to await the Actuarial Report on the Quinquennial Review under the National Insurance Acts.
§ 30. Dr. Kingasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether the Quinquennial Review includes in its purview pensions paid to disabled ex-Service men.
§ Mr. PeakeThe provisions for the Quinquennial Review of National Insurance benefits do not extend to war pensions, but I must have a complete picture of the total cost of all the proposed improvements before I can announce any of them.
§ Mr. SimmonsIs the Minister aware that the majority of ex-Service men will be very disappointed with that reply, because they were promised in two world wars a reward for their service and sufferings irrespective of actuarial considerations? As he has the knowledge of what is needed to increase pensions to the present-day purchasing power of money, why does he not act now?
§ Mr. PeakeI think I can say that when I am able to make an announcement—and I am just as impatient to make it as hon. Members are to hear it—the ex-Service community will be very well satisfied with the proposals.
§ Dr. KingAs it is common ground that the basic rate of 1946 was not too high, and as the Minister could act tomorrow by the Royal Warrant and 300 back benchers on both sides think we 22 have a debt of honour to the ex-Service men that ought to be fulfilled now, will not the right hon. Gentleman do something now for the ex-Service men?
§ Mr. PeakeI do think it is reasonable for the Government to say that they must collate all the various proposals in all the different pension schemes before an announcement is made.