§ 15. Mr. PENNEFATHERasked the Pensions Minister what is the usual time taken to decide an alternative pensions claim; and whether any steps can be taken to expedite such cases?
§ Sir J. CRAIGThe time taken to decide a claim to alternative pensions depends entirely on the difficulty of the case, but if the claim is submitted by the local committee with proper and complete verifica- 250 tion of pre-war earnings, a decision could be notified within, approximately, a fortnight.
It will be realised, however, that the proper verification of pre-war earnings is frequently a matter of great difficulty, necessitating prolonged and careful inquiry. Cases have, therefore, to be referred back, and in these cases a longer time is taken. Official inquiry officers, with the necessary qualifications, have been appointed for almost all areas, and it is confidently expected, as a result, that decisions will be expedited. Moreover, the staff is being greatly strengthened and increased with a view we dealing in a more rapid manner with the very large number of claims now being received.
§ Colonel YATEDoes the reply apply to officers or is it only applicable to men?
§ Sir J. CRAIGAs there has been some delay with regard to alternative pensions for officers, it chiefly concerns men, but if my hon. and gallant Friend will put down a question I shall be very glad to inquire.