§ 73. Captain LOSEBYsked the Pensions Minister how many disablement pensions were awarded during the year 1918, and how many applications were made for alternative pensions?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Colonel Sir James Craig)The total number of disablement pensions awarded in 1918 for all ranks of the Army, Navy, and Air Force was 244,451, and 4,977 applications for alternative pensions were received. The number of widows' pensions awarded during the year was 71,614, and there were 18,326 applications for widows' alternative pensions.
§ Captain LOSEBYHas the hon. Gentleman noticed that only one per cent. or little more have applied for this magnificent grant, and does he not think that this points to the fact that the alternative pensions are quite insufficiently advertised and are unknown to the majority of soldiers?
§ Sir J. CRAIGI can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that every possible step is being taken to let those who are desirous of obtaining alternative pensions know what are their rights.
§ Mr. HOGGECan the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether those 200,000 were first applications or renewals?
§ Sir J. CRAIGI would like to have notice of that question.