§ 13. Captain LOSEBYasked the Pensions Minister to what extent Pensions Appeal Boards are still in arrear with their cases; and what steps are now taken to assist disabled men during the period that the appeal is pending?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI assume that the hon. and gallant Member refers to the Pensions Appeal Tribunals, which have been reconstituted, as from 1st November, under the jurisdiction of the Lord Chancellor, in accordance with the provisions of the War Pensions (Administrative Provisions) Act, 1919. A great improvement has recently been made. The cases in hand in May last numbered 16,000, in August the number was reduced to 11,000, and to-day to 6,000, including cases in the hands of local committees and those adjourned at the request of the appellant. Local committees are authorised, in cases where the medical referee is of opinion that the appeal could succeed, to make recoverable advances up to the probable rate of pension. I am, however, considering simplifying the preliminary procedure iii these appeal cases and so lessening the period of waiting and making the present. extensive provision of recoverable advances unnecessary.
§ Mr. HOUSTONCan the right hon. Gentleman tell me whether the decision of the Appeal Board is final, or whether when fresh circumstances are brought to light it can be reopened?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe decision of the Appeal Tribunals is final, but it has been my practice, when they were under my control, that if really new evidence was subsequently discovered, to communicate the fact to the president of the tribunal, leaving it to him at his discretion to order a new trial if he thought proper. Otherwise their action is final.