13. Major JOHN EDWARDSasked the Pensions Minister whether the recommendations of medical boards are invariably carried out in the granting of pensions and retired pay to discharged and disabled soldiers; and, if not, whether he will take steps to see that this is done, seeing that the medical boards are the only qualified authorities to survey the disabilities of these officers and men?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe reply to the first part of the question is in the negative. I cannot admit that medical boards are the only qualified authorities to survey the disabilitiesof officers and men. It is found, by experience, that medical boards vary greatly in their views and assessments, and in fairness to the disabled it is desirable that the reports of the boards should be carefully reviewed by well-qualified medical men atthe Ministry of Pensions in order to maintain a proper common standard of awarding and ensure equal justice in all eases.
§ Sir JOHN BUTCHERIs there not in all these cases an appeal to a tribunal?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSNo, my hon. Friend is not quite correct; there is not in all cases an appeal to a tribunal. There is only an appeal where the question is whether a man is or is not entitled to a pension.
§ Mr. ALFRED DAVIES (Clitheroe)In the event of the Appeal Tribunal deciding in favour of the soldier, is the pension board to follow?