asked the Minister of Pensions what was the total amount paid in war pensions during the years 1945 to 1951, inclusive, as compared with the amount paid during the previous seven years.

The total amount paid in pensions and allowances during the seven financial years 1938–39 to 1944–45 was £298,509,000. The corresponding amount for the seven years 1945–46 to 1951–52, the amount for the year ending 31st March, 1952, being estimated, is £545,868,000.