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Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Pensions – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 20 Ebrill 1948.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Mr. De la Bère:

asked the Minister of Pensions what was the total number of N.C.Os. and O.Rs. on the pensions in payment roll as at 31st March, 1948, and the annual cost of their pensions; how many of these men received unemployability allowance, hardship allowance, constant attendance allowance, education allowance and clothing allowance, respectively, as at 31st March, 1948; and what was the annual cost of each of these allowances.

Photo of Mr George Buchanan Mr George Buchanan , Glasgow Gorbals

As the answer contains a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

I regret that figures for 31st March, 1948, are not yet available. The total number of pensions in payment to N.C.Os. and other ranks at 31st December, 1947, was 696,327 at an approximate annual cost, including wives' and children's allowances, of £39,168,000. Particulars of the additional allowances in payment at that date are as follows:

No. of recipients.Approximate annual cost.
£
Unemployability allowance7,610406,500
Special hardship allowance1,74249,600
Constant attendance allowance4,100240,000
Education allowance3006,300
Clothing allowance32,686102,900

Mr. De la Bère:

asked the Minister of Pensions how many N.C.Os. and O.Rs. were classified as 100 per cent. disabled as at 31st March, 1948; and what was the annual cost of their pensions.

Photo of Mr George Buchanan Mr George Buchanan , Glasgow Gorbals

I regret that figures for 31st March, 1948, are not yet available. The number of N.C.Os. and other ranks in receipt of pension at the 100 per cent. rate at 31st December, 1947, was 45,940. The approximate annual cost of their pensions was £6,809,000.

Mr. De la Bère:

In view of the very great problem which confronts the Minister, would he allow his thoughts to rise to the height of the situation, because if he does not do something, nothing will be done?

Photo of Mr George Buchanan Mr George Buchanan , Glasgow Gorbals

All I can say is that I find great difficulty in elevating my thoughts as high as the hon. Gentleman has elevated his, but I will do my best to follow his example.

Photo of Wing Commander Ernest Millington Wing Commander Ernest Millington , Chelmsford

Will my right hon. Friend examine most carefully that supplementary question and his answer, and if the inference is that the amount of money should be reduced will he resist it strongly?

Photo of Mr George Buchanan Mr George Buchanan , Glasgow Gorbals

The hon. and gallant Gentleman can take it that there will be no reduction so long as I am at the Ministry.