§ 44. Mr. GILBERTasked the Pensions Minister how, in the case of a dependant other than a wife, dependency is assessed for the purpose of pension; and whether the estimate of dependency represented by the allotment and allowance paid while the soldier is serving is accepted as the extent of dependency if the soldier in respect of whom it is issued is killed?
§ Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWEN"Pre-war dependence" is assessed for the purpose of pension in the manner laid down in Article 24 (7) of the Royal Warrant of the 17th April, 1918. Under this Article the estimate of dependency for the purpose of separation allowance is not necessarily accepted for pension, inasmuch as increase of benefits due to circumstances arising out of the War are excluded from the assessment for pension purposes. It has, however, been agreed with the Select Committee on Public Expenditure that where the original assessment does not exceed 7s. 6d. a week that assessment may be accepted for pension as a general rule. In other cases some 577 inquiry may be necessary as to possible increase of benefits due to the War, but it is found in practice that in the majority of cases the original assessment can be accepted.
§ Mr. WATTCan the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether the assessments of his Department are based upon the pre-war value of money?
§ Sir A. GRIFFITH-BOSCAWENNo; I have just said in answer to the question that they are not.