Orders of the Day — Contributory Pensions Bill.

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons am ar 15 Gorffennaf 1925.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Sir Patrick Hastings Sir Patrick Hastings , Wallsend

I am sorry that I disagree with the hon. and learned Member for South Shields (Mr. Harney) who said that this Clause was all right. I take a very serious view of this Clause. There are three different cases to which this proviso applies. The first is the decision of the Minister where the Act makes it final and conclusive. I do not profess to have every word of the Act in mind, but there is no Clause in this Bill which expressly gives a discretion to the Minister in any matter whatever. The only way in which any discretion arises is by the use of the word "may." If the Minister looks at Clause 21, on which I think he intends to give the right of appeal, he will find the words that if the woman is convicted the Minister may cancel the pension.