36. Major DAVIESasked the Pensions Minister whether the issue of allowances to discharged men whilst they are waiting training is contemplated; and, if so, whether he will state the conditions upon which such allowances will be issued?
§ The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. Hodge)As I stated in reply to the question put to me by the hon. and learned Member for South Salford on the 21st March, the payment of allowances to men awaiting training has been sanctioned. I am sending the hon. and gallant Member a copy of the circular issued to local committees, in which the conditions governing the allowances are explained.
37. Major DAVIESasked the Pensions Minister whether he is aware that Mr. V. H. Harris, late No. T.R. 3/29240, 70th Training Reserve Battalion, has been informed by the Superintendent, Pension Issue Office, Baker Street, W. 1, that for the period from 20th July, 1017, to 21st March, 1918, an overpayment of £24 10s. has been made to him in consequence of the concurrent issue of special temporary allowance and pensions; that this over payment vas due to his being incorrectly described in the notification authorising the issue to him of special temporary allowance; that a refund of the £24 10s. is now claimed; and whether, in view of the fact that overpayment was due to no neglect on the part of this discharged soldier and that he is only able to work irregularly, he will lake steps to have the claim cancelled?
§ Mr. HODGEThe facts are as stated. Mr. Harris was, however, informed when the special temporary allowance was sent to him that this allowance was payable until his claim for pension had been decided. He still continued to receive the allowance after his pension was awarded, 675 although he should have been aware that he was not entitled to receive both allowance and pension at the same time. Recovery of the over-issue is now being made from current pension at the rate of Is. 6d. per week, and I see no reason for interfering with this arrangement.