HC Deb 17 October 1918 vol 110 cc277-8
41. Mr. P. A. HARRIS

asked the Pensions Minister whether members of the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, the Women's Royal Navy Corps, and the Women's Auxiliary Flying Corps who are incapacitated because of service overseas either through shell shock or other causes are entitled to pensions; and, if not, whether he will consider making representations to the Treasury to include them in the Royal Warrant?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

Members of these auxiliary services do not come within the Warrants administered by the Ministry of Pensions. They are, I understand, entitled to compensation under the Injuries in War Act, for which they prefer their claims against their respective Departments.

Mr. HARRIS

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that there are many women who have been overseas and have suffered from being under fire who have received no pension? Does he consider it right that women should be in a worse position than men when they volunteer for service overseas?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

I do not think it at all right, but they have their remedy now through their respective Departments.

Mr. HARRIS

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman consider bringing them in the same position as men?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

I will certainly consider it.

Mr. PRINGLE

In what way do they obtain their remedy from those Departments?

Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN

I have already said, under the provisions of the Injuries in War Act.