§ MR. JASPER TULLY (Leitrim, S.)I beg to ask the Financial Secretary to the War Office, whether he is aware that the Commissioners of Chelsea Hospital have received a memorial from ex-private James M'Govern, Church Street, Boyle, praying for an increase of his small pension of sevenpence a day, owing to his being permanently disabled while serving in the Afghan campaign of 1878–9; and whether, as the 1ocal magistrates and clergymen have certified that this veteran soldier is in great distress and unable to work owing to the injury to his eyes, he will be prepared to inquire into his case, and recommend an increase of his pension?
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE WAR OFFICE (Mr. J. POWELL-WILLIAMS,) Birmingham, S.Private James M'Govern was discharged after three years' service (which hardly constitutes a veteran soldier), on account of having broken his leg when off duty. He was awarded the highest pension which could be given for his length of service, and there is no warrant under which it can be increased. His memorial was duly received and considered.