§ 6. Dr. McDONALDasked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware of the increased delay in settling pensions, and of the irritation and restlessness arising therefrom; and is he aware that letters and telegrams from local committees to administrative area headquarters frequently remain unanswered?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONUnfortunately, it is the case that in certain areas some delay has occurred, principally on account 567 of the fact that an increasing proportion of pension claims are now made by men who allege disablement by war service tong after their demobilisation, and this class of case necessarily requires fuller investigation than does that of men who are known to be disabled at the time of discharge. Every effort is, however, being made to deal with these cases promptly, and with increased experience the staffs of the more recently constituted regions will acquire facility in dealing with cases. I will be glad to inquire at once into any specific cases brought to my notice.
§ Mr. HOGGEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a great part of this delay is due to the fact that, after a pension is determined by the regional authority, payment cannot be made until the consent of the Pensions Issue Department has been obtained; and will he look into the question of delays at the Pensions Issue Department, in order that these payments may be expedited?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI am looking into all cases of delay. I know my hon. Friend has sent me a good many, and if he sends me any more, I shall look into them.
§ Mr. HOGGEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the real crux of the difficulty is the dispute in existence in the Pensions Issue Department, and will he undertake to give that his personal attention, so that these claims may be met promptly?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI am not aware of any dispute in the Pensions Issue Department, but I will have the whole case considered myself personally.