HC Deb 05 November 1919 vol 120 cc1509-10W
Mr. WARING

asked the 'Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the urgent demand for an increase in old age pensions, he can see his way to hasten the Report of the Committee which is investigating the subject, or to secure an interim report upon which judgment can be founded?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I hope the Report will be issued next week.

Sir HENRY COWAN

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether it is the intention of the Government to ask the House of Commons to relieve it of its responsibility for any increase in the old age pension allowances which may be recommended by the Committee recently appointed by the Treasury to consider and report what alterations, if any, as regards rates of pension or qualification should be made in the existing statutory scheme of old age pensions; whether there is any precedent for the transfer of the Government's responsibility, in a matter involving such a charge upon the Treasury, to the House of Commons; and whether, having regard to the present depreciated value of money and the consequent hardships suffered by persons in receipt of such pensions, he will consider the desirability of providing such funds as may be' required, in respect of any increase of pension recommended by that Committee, by effecting economies in less important items of national expenditure?

Mr. BALDWIN

The Government will accept responsibility for any advice which they may tender to the House on this or on any subject. But the fact that the Government tender advice does not -absolve the House of responsibility for accepting or rejecting that advice, and, in financial matters especially, the House has always claimed the right to control Government. As regards the last paragraph of the question, my right hon. Friend will be glad to consider any suggestions from the House for effecting economies, and, in particular, to know what are the less important services which the House is now willing to curtail or suspend.

Mr. AUBREY HERBERT

asked the Home Secretary when the Report on Old Age Pensions will be issued?

Mr. BALDWIN

I hope the Report will be issued next week.