asked the Minister for Defence whether it is proposed to increase the pensions of officers, N.C.O.s and men of the Defence Forces on retirement; and when an announcement will be made on the matter.

Arising out of the increases in Army pay which will become operative as from the 1st February, 1961, increased rates of retired pay and pension under the Defence Forces (Pensions) Schemes will also be formulated, applicable to officers, non-commissioned officers and men who benefit from the pay increases mentioned. I regret that, at present, I am not in a position to forecast any more general increases.

I understood the Minister for Defence to say in the House some time ago that the question of granting an increase in the pensions of non-commissioned officers and men was under active consideration at that time. Has anything eventuated from that and when is it likely that some definite indication will be given to non-commissioned officers and men, who are now approaching the period when their time is expiring, that their pensions will be increased?

I shall bring the Deputy's remarks to the attention of the Minister.

Will the Minister ask him to be a bit more generous than in the case of the pay increase?