India (Retired Officers, Pensions)

Oral Answers to Questions — Burma – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 4 Rhagfyr 1947.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Flight Lieut Wavell Wakefield Flight Lieut Wavell Wakefield , St Marylebone 12:00, 4 Rhagfyr 1947

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations if he is aware of the financial difficulties in which retired British officers of the Indian Civil Service and the Indian Armed Services find themselves whilst living in the Dominions and Colonies on account of non-receipt of their pensions; and what steps is he proposing to take to ensure that these officers receive the monies due to them.

Photo of Mr Philip Noel-Baker Mr Philip Noel-Baker , Derby

I am sorry to say that there has been delay in the payment of pensions to retired officers of the Indian Defence Forces who now live in certain Dominions and Colonies overseas. But I am happy to add that it has recently been arranged that my office shall act as the agent of the Government of India, and shall provisionally assess and issue these pensions. I am not aware that similar difficulties have been caused to any retired officers of the Indian Civil Service, but I shall be glad to inquire into any cases which the hon. Member may care to raise.

Photo of Flight Lieut Wavell Wakefield Flight Lieut Wavell Wakefield , St Marylebone

In view of the serious financial position in which some of these officers find themselves, will the Secretary of State expedite the arrangements which he has made? I am sure the House will be grateful to him for having taken such action.

Photo of Mr Philip Noel-Baker Mr Philip Noel-Baker , Derby

We have already telegraphed to all the territories concerned. I think we have got in virtually all the claims that can be made, and, I do undertake that every claim will be dealt with sympathetically and promptly.