Oral Answers to Questions — Ex-Ranker Officers.

– in the House of Commons am ar 23 Gorffennaf 1924.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Rear-Admiral Sir Murray Sueter Rear-Admiral Sir Murray Sueter , Hertford

52.

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that nearly 100 Members have asked that the House may be allowed to discuss and determine the question of whether or not, some addition should be made to the pensions of certain ranker officers in respect of their period of commissioned service, and in view of the fact that, when a proposal was made to set up a Committee to look into the claims of these men, it was agreed to on the distinct understanding that the House would have an opportunity of expressing its opinion, he will now say when the House will be given this opportunity?

Photo of Mr John Clynes Mr John Clynes , Manchester Platting

I cannot accept the hon. and gallant Member's interpretation of the remarks made in the course of the Debate on this subject, and I regret that I can hold out no hope of facilities being given for a discussion of the Report.

Photo of Rear-Admiral Sir Murray Sueter Rear-Admiral Sir Murray Sueter , Hertford

You had better read the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Photo of Rear-Admiral Sir Murray Sueter Rear-Admiral Sir Murray Sueter , Hertford

You cannot have read it correctly.

Photo of Mr Henry Lorimer Mr Henry Lorimer , Derbyshire Southern

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that the Prime Minister has kept his election promises on this question?

Photo of Mr Leslie Hore-Belisha Mr Leslie Hore-Belisha , Plymouth, Devonport

What steps have the Government taken to find employment for ex-ranker officers?

Photo of Mr Harry Becker Mr Harry Becker , Richmond (Surrey)

Will the ex-ranker officer now have to consider that his case is entirely closed, and that there is no hope of anything further being done for him?

Photo of Mr John Clynes Mr John Clynes , Manchester Platting

That is the interpretation given by the Government to the conclusion stated in the Report.

Photo of Mr John Harris Mr John Harris , Hackney South

Is it not a fact that during the speech of the Prime Minister he repeatedly stated that this House would have a chance of discussing this matter?

Photo of Mr John Clynes Mr John Clynes , Manchester Platting

I do not think the Report implies that.

Photo of Mr John Harris Mr John Harris , Hackney South

No, not the Report, but the speech of the Prime Minister.

Photo of Mr Leslie Hore-Belisha Mr Leslie Hore-Belisha , Plymouth, Devonport

Why is the right hon. Gentleman afraid of having this matter discussed?