§ Mr. Roperasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why the Paymaster-General's Department is not able to pay a service pension directly into a pensioner's National Giro account.
§ Mr. HigginsIn considering methods of paying pensions the Paymaster-General's Office, like other Departments, must have regard to the obligation to carry on its business in the most efficient and economical manner. The production of the special document required by the National Giro would be a costly alternative to its standard computerised system of payment through banks, nor has the National Giro been able to agree to the refund of any excess pension paid after the death of a pensioner. Discussions with the National Giro with a view to resolving these difficulties are continuing.