Superannuitants

HC Deb 18 March 1959 vol 602 cc401-2

51. Dr. King

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what further discussions he has had with the Chairman of the British Transport Commission on the position of aged railway superannuitants; and with what results.

Mr. Watkinson

I have drawn the attention of the Chairman of the British Transport Commission to representations made to me, and these are receiving consideration. I must leave it to the Commission to take any decision in the matter.

Dr. King

Is the Minister aware that hon. Members on both sides know his practical sympathy in this matter, but they are gravely concerned about the position of railway superannuitants who are on pensions which were meagre even taken at the standard of the cost of living when they were awarded but which have now become utterly ridiculous? Will he put some pressure on the British Transport Commission to step up the allowances to its own superannuitants?

Mr. Watkinson

This is a matter entirely for the British Transport Commission. I have kept the Chairman of the Commission fully informed of the representations made to me by various Members of the House, and he has told me that he will carefully consider them. There my responsibility ends.

Mr. Oakshott

As one of those who has made representations to my right hon. Friend, may I say that, while we fully accept that this is a matter for the Commission and not for him, we should like him to recognise that many of us feel that these people are justified in thinking that they have been left out? Does my right hon. Friend realise that any influence he can bring to bear on the British Transport Commission in this matter will be very warmly welcomed?

Mr. Watkinson

It is a very difficult problem. The Commission, some time ago, made some increases in these pensions, which it then said were as much as it could possibly afford. The Commission's present financial position is extremely precarious, and I would feel it very difficult to press the Chairman of the Commission if it is his view that the Commission just cannot afford to make any increase.