12. Pension or gratuity not to be assignable

A pension or gratuity granted under this Act is not assignable or transferable, except for the purpose of satisfying —

a debt due to the Government; or

an order of any court for the payment of periodical sums of money towards the maintenance of the wife or former wife or minor child, whether legitimate or not, of the person to whom the pension has been granted,and shall not be liable to be attached, sequestered or levied upon for or in respect of any debt or claim whatever except a debt due to the Government.