§ 20. Mr. BYRNEasked the Under Secretary of State for War if he is aware that ex-Private John Dillson, No. 14,580, 9th Battalion, Royal Dublin Fusiliers, who met with an accident whilst unloading stores at Buttevant, county Cork, is at present being provided for by Poor Law relief; if he will say whether pensions are to be provided for soldiers who meet with accidents whilst on military work; and, if so, when will this man receive a pension to provide for his family of three children?
§ Mr. BYRNEMay I ask the hon. Gentleman if he will answer the last part of the question, namely, what steps will be taken to provide pensions for soldiers who meet with accidents whilst on military work?
§ Mr. FORSTERI can only deal with these matters under the existing regulations. I cannot answer as to the details of this case until I have made some inquiries; but if the hon. Gentleman wishes information as to any change in the regulations contemplated by the new Warrant which is under consideration, perhaps he will be good enough to address the question to the Pensions Minister.
§ Mr. BYRNEMay I ask the hon. Gentleman whether it is honourable or fair that soldiers' dependants should be thrown on Poor Law relief from any local authorities?
§ Mr. HOGGEDoes the War Office communicate in these cases with the local war pensions committee in the neighbourhood for help?
§ Mr. FORSTERYes; of course they communicate, and most willingly, with the local committee, but I was pointing out to the hon. Gentleman that I had not made the inquiries to enable me to answer his question.