HC Deb 24 May 1965 vol 713 cc24-5
32. Mr. Delargy

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether she will use her power under the Royal Warrant to ensure that war-disabled pensioners, who are sent to prison, do not forfeit their pensions.

Mr. Harold Davies

It is well understood that war pensions, like many other forms of public pension, are not paid during imprisonment. If a pensioner is married, however, payments are made to his family whilst he is in prison. In practice, the pension is nowadays always restored on release, except, for example, if treason was involved.

Mr. Delargy

Does not my hon. Friend agree that a war pension is given for services in war and not for good conduct in peace? Is it right that a man should be punished twice for one offence? Is it right that the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance should have these vary wide penal powers?

Mr. Davies

On the question of being punished twice, the difference is that the pension comes directly out of public taxation and it is thought that in the case of a man's imprisonment it would be justified, without his wife and children suffering, to take that part of the pension which belongs only to him. During his imprisonment the allowances for his wife and children are paid. On the latter part of the question, about the Minister's discretion, it is now always used in favour of restoring the pension after the prisoner's release.

Mr. Delargy

My point is that the Minister should not have any discretion in this matter.

Sir J. Langford-Holt

Can the hon. Gentleman say what is the position about disability pensions?

Mr. Davies

The position is exactly as it was under the Government supported by the hon. Member.

Sir J. Langford-Holt

What was that?

Mr. Lipton

Can my hon. Friend say what is the magnitude of this problem? There cannot be many involved; is it worth while pursuing this policy?

Mr. Davies

The magnitude of the problem is that at present 160 pensioners are in prison. The magnitude concerning forfeiture is that since this Government have been in power the Minister has used her discretion and the pensions are no longer forfeited.