§ Sir W. de FRECEasked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that throughout the country there is clearly the impression that pensions are automatically to be reduced immediately; and whether he will state, for the information of the public, what exactly are the intentions of the authorities in this respect?
§ Major TRYONI am not aware that any such general impression exists, but I am glad to have this opportunity of stating most emphatically that, if it exist, it is entirely without foundation. No automatic reduction of pensions could possibly take place except under the special provision of the Warrant, which requires that the rates of pension shall vary in accordance with the cost of living; and on this I would remind my hon. Friend that the Government have expressly stated that the rates of flat-rate pension for men, widows and dependants (which in the ordinary course would have been reduced last year) shall not in any case be reduced under this provision before April, 1926.