HC Deb 05 November 1919 vol 120 cc1479-80
84. Mr. DONALD

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state why wound gratuity has been refused Lieutenant G. A. M. Leathem, No. 130305–2, L 3, Royal Irish Rifles, a young Officer who volunteered on the 22nd September, 1915, was wounded three times, was six months in hospital, was invalided home on the 25th March, 1919, and is still suffering from wounds received?

Mr. FORSTER

I think it is not always realised that the Royal Warrant attaches to the grant of wound gratuities the special condition that the wound must be adjudged, in the opinion of the proper medical authorities, very severe. This condition is not satisfied in the case of the officer referred to.

Mr. MOLES

Is he aware that in this case the application for the gratuity received no consideration?

Mr. FORSTER

Received no consideration? It has been considered six times!

Mr. MOLES

Will he see that steps are taken to acquaint the officer concerned with the decision?

Mr. FORSTER

I really think this case has been examined so often, and this officer has appealed so often, and the appeal has been decided against him so often, that it cannot be reconsidered.