§ 8. Mr. Patonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what provision he proposes to make for retired persons who lose their tobacco tokens.
§ Mr. H. MacmillanI appreciate that there may be hardship in such cases, just as when there is loss of money, but I am afraid it is not possible to make special provision, either by replacement of lost tobacco tokens or otherwise, without risk to the Revenue or without altering the scheme to the disadvantage of the general body of pensioners.
§ Mr. PatonIs the Chancellor aware of the very great hardship to poor and old people which arises from the Treasury's rigidity in this matter? Could he not adopt some such device as a declaration before a magistrate as to proof of loss, and for new tokens thereupon to be issued? I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will look at this matter again, in justice to the old people.
§ Mr. MacmillanI am always ready, of course, to look at it again, but there are very great technical difficulties.