§ Mr. Parkerasked the Minister of Pensions what is the reason for fixing the maximum rate of pension for grade 5 men at 32s. 6d. a week, as against 40s. in the Great War; and whether he will consider restoring the original rate?
§ Sir W. WomersleyThe rate of 40s. is not that which was paid in the Great War but represents the final figure determined in 1919 to meet the greatly increased cost of living in that year and includes other additions made to the original maximum rate of 17s. 6d. as the cost of living rose during the war. The rate of 32s. 6d. gives a greater purchasing power to-day than 40s. did in 1919.