THE GERMAN PAUPER QUESTION 73 



Mr H. Beilby wrote : 



" With respect to provision for old age a German 

 working-man is better provided for. I should greatly- 

 like to see the old age and infirmity pension scheme 

 introduced into England," 



Mr H. Calvert says : 



" The old age and infirmity pension scheme im- 

 pressed me as being perfect in organisation and admini- 

 stration; and it must be very gratifying to know that 

 when the time comes to cease work, declining years will 

 not be spent within the workhouse gate. Provision 

 against accidents and sickness, which is also compul- 

 sory, is very beneficial, as it enables all workers to be- 

 come independent of charity, which is always an uncer- 

 tain quantity." 



The Report itself has many references to the subject. 

 Here are a few of them : 



" The working classes are well clothed and well 

 educated, and their interests are attended to by the 

 State in a measure unknown in other countries. In sick- 

 ness they can claim relief at the hands of the State ; in 

 old age, and when incapacitated for work, they have not 

 got the workhouse or the poorhouse to look forward to, 

 but a certain fixed allowance, in return for which they 

 are certain to have a refuge for their declining years with 

 their relatives and friends. 



" There is a pension fund inaugurated by the firm 

 for the men over and above the State pension fund, and 

 also a fund for giving support to the employees during 

 sickness, or when in special want of aid. These are free 



