§ Colonel ASHLEYasked the Pensions Minister whether, in view of the fact that there are great numbers of old Regular soldiers who had finished their original engagement, of twelve years before the War broke out and who have since served with distinction in the War, he will consider relaxing the Rule which does not permit a modified pension to be granted to a man with less than eighteen years' service so as to ensure that these men, who would otherwise be discharged on demobilisation without a pension of any sort, shall be compensated for the worthy service they have given in this War?
§ Mr. FORSTERMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. My hon. and gallant Friend will remember that pensions for service remain in the province of the War Office. I am afraid it is not possible to adopt this form of recognition for the worthy service of these men.