7. Lieut.-Colonel PINKHAMasked the Minister of Pensions if the Government will immediately consider the possibility of increasing pre-War pensions for ex-service men to the present total disability rate in such cases where it can be proved that the existing total disability is solely and entirely due to accident occasioned in the course of the man's duty, whether at manœuvres or elsewhere other than on actual campaign, with special reference to the case of C. Meredith, late Royal Navy, blinded by explosion while on duty on 14th February, 1914, on board H.M.S. "Grampus" lying off Malta, who is totally blind and whose pension is 13s. per week?
§ Major TRYONThe class of case referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend is under the immediate consideration of the Cabinet Committee on Pre-War Pensions.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir S. HOAREIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that this man, whose injuries were entirely suffered in the course of his duties, is actually starving, and, pending the decision of the Cabinet Committee, could he give him some relief?
§ Major TRYONPerhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will write to me about that. I am quite aware that these are cases of great hardship.
§ Captain R. TERRELLWhen may we expect the decision of the Cabinet Committee?
§ Major TRYONI will inquire. I hope it will be at a very early date. I am quite aware of the importance of this particular case.