HC Deb 12 November 1957 vol 577 cc771-2
39. Dame Irene Ward

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why temporary service in the Civil Service before 1st January, 1919, is not counted as to one half in assessment for pensions; and whether he will alter this date.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

Because one of the objects of the provision of the Superannuation Act, 1946, which precludes the reckoning of pre-1919 service, was to cater for those who entered the Civil Service in the 'twenties and 'thirties under special schemes for ex-Service men of the 1914–18 war. The answer to the second part of the Question is "No."

Dame Irene Ward

As my right hon. Friend is supposed to be examining proposals for dealing with small fixed income groups, is this one of the proposals which he will have re-examined? Is he aware that the ex-Service men's associations, whose views are now reflected in the representations that are being made, fully support the proposal that the date should be altered from January, 1919? Will he reconsider the point?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have given the reason why this date was chosen, but I would never refuse to examine anything that my hon. Friend put to me.

Mr. T. Williams

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us approximately how many persons are involved in the subject of the Question, and what the concession would be likely to cost the Treasury?

Mr. Thorneycroft

Not without notice.