asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to the case of Mr. S. F. Rayns, of 197, Syston Street, Leicester, who claimed a contributor's old age pension after attaining the age of 65 years, and who was in receipt of a service dependent's pension of 9s. 7d. weekly; that an increase of 5d. a week has been given in respect of his rights to an old age pension; and whether it is proposed to increase this award so as to equal the amount to which he would otherwise be entitled by way of contributory pension?

The position is as stated in the first and second parts of the question. My hon. Friend is aware that the award is governed by the express provisions of Section 24 (1) of the Contributory Pensions Act, 1925, and my right hon. Friend has no power to award a pension except in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

In view of the fact that through this calamity the State profits to the extent of 9s. 5d. a week for five years, will the hon. Gentleman use some discretion to restore to this man in Leicester this extra 9s. 5d. a week for which he contributed?

No. Parliament gave no discretion. I am afraid nothing can be done.

Am I right in saying that for five years this man will be deprived of 9s. 5d. for which he contributed as a pensioner under the Act?