§ 9. Mr. ALFRED SHORTasked the Pensions Minister whether his attention was called to the case of F. J. Riley, late No. 4654, Labour Corps, of 142, Holyhead Road, Wednesbury, on 12th February, 1919; whether on 28th February a report was called for from the special medical board; whether a reminder was sent to the president of the medical board on 26th March; whether his Department is still unable to secure a report; whether he is aware that Mr. Riley has a blind wife and two children dependent upon him and, at the time of his application, possessed no income whatsoever; whether it is customary for such delay to take place in the settlement of such claims; and, if so, whether he will create machinery to speed up such settlements?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe special medical board's report has now been received in this difficult case, and arrangements are being made for Mr. Riley's admission to a neurological hospital. Whilst he is in hospital he and his family will be eligible for the full treatment allowances under Article 6 of the Royal Warrant. The present degree of disablement is assessed at 40 per cent., 2195 and when treatment allowances cease to be payable pension will be paid on that basis in lieu of the former award of £26.