asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what is the current rate of the Civil Service bonus; and whether that bonus is given at a rate in excess of the index figure of the cost of living as at 1st July?

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether, in view of the cost of living having fallen to 55 per cent. over the pre-War rate, it is proposed to adjust the Civil Service bonus in conformity with this cost?

asked the Financial Secretary to The Treasury the annual cost falling upon the taxpayer arising out of the difference of 15 points between the cost-of-living index figure of 55 and the Civil Service bonus figure of 70?

The bonus payable during the current six months up to the 31st August next is on the basis of a cost-of-living figure of 70, which is the rounded-up average of the figures for the six months ended the 28th February last. The Government have decided that during the six months commencing on the 1st September next Civil Service bonus will be payable on the basis of a figure of 65. A variation of five points over a period of six months involves a sum estimated at about £800,000.

Am I to understand that there has been a considerable change in the Government's policy on this matter?

No; I do not think there has been any considerable change. A decision has been taken which is similar to the decision taken last year.

Can the hon. Gentleman say on what basis the Government arrive at the figure of 65, when for a long period the cost-of-living index has been much below that figure?

The Government have come to that decision just as last year they came to a decision to make it 70. This year they have come to the decision to make it 65.

HON. MEMBERS:

On what basis?

The figure for the six months would not be as much below that as is suggested on the question. It would probably be 60.

Is it not with a view to getting votes at the next election?