§ Captain GARRO-JONESasked the Minister of Pensions if he will briefly state on what grounds the Ministry acquiesces in the principle of the commutation of large pensions but declines to consider the commutation of pensions under 14s.?
§ Major TRYONThe regulations governing commutation of pension, which are common to my own Department and to the Service Departments, are designed to secure to the pensioner a permanent minimum of pension with the object of ensuring that the pensioner should not be left entirely destitute in the event of failure involving loss of the capital sum obtained by commutation. Experience has shown that this rule is in the best interests of pensioners generally, and I am satisfied that it should be maintained.
2052W
§ Major HENNESSYI have been asked to reply. Loans to co-operative marketing societies are not made under the Agricultural Credits Act, 1923, but from a fund provided by Parliament for the purpose. No loans were made prior to July, 1924. Since that date, six societies have received loans totalling £25,120. Other loans have been approved amounting to £10,550 to five other societies.