HC Deb 10 June 1918 vol 106 cc1851-2
63. Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether any of the men in a low medical category who are discharged from the Army as being surplus to military requirements or of greater use in civil life can reasonably claim to be entitled to pensions, allowances, or gratuities; and, if so, whether he is aware that the fact of their having been discharged under the above headings prevents the Ministry of Pensions from entertaining their claims?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Colonel Sir Arthur Griffith-Boscawen)

The hon. Member appears to be under a misapprehension. Men discharged or transferred to the Army Reserve as surplus to military requirements fall into two classes, namely, those who have suffered impairment since their entry into the Service and those who have not. The men who have suffered impairment are dealt with as if they had been discharged on the ground of medical unfitness, and are entitled to the pensions, allowances, or gratuities that may be appropriate to their cases under the Royal Warrant.

Mr. PENNEFATHER

How are local war pensions committees to know which of the two classes a man comes under if he presents his certificate as a discharged soldier surplus to military requirements?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

If, after medical examination, the papers are forwarded to Chelsea, the case will be dealt with according to the manner in which he has been invalided out. The matter, therefore, would not go to the local war pensions committee at all. If the question is asked of them, and they will communicate with the Ministry, we shall be able to give them the information.

65. Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether men discharged as surplus to military requirements are being refused both pensions and silver badges on the grounds that being so discharged they are liable to recall; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Men are awarded the silver war badge only if discharged as permanently and totally unfit for further military service on account of old age, wounds or sickness. As regards pension, I must refer my hon. Friend to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Pensions.