asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware of the delay in paying increased pensions to retired Army officers and to widows of officers from June, 1979; and if he will arrange for payment forthwith.

: The retired pay of Army officers is not pay-related and it is necessary to prepare a Defence Forces (Pensions) Scheme to give effect to increased rates of retired pay arising out of pay increases which have been granted retrospective to June 1979. The granting of increases in the pensions of certain widows of officers also depends upon the completion of the scheme.

Every effort is being made to have the matter brought to completion quickly and the increased pensions including arrears will be paid as soon as possible.