§ 45. Mr. CHARLES WHITEasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the increase in pre-war pensions to Army and Navy and other State pensioners, due as from 1st April last, has not in a large number of cases been paid; whether he is aware that many of these pensioners are suffering great privations; whether it is necessary that each pensioner shall make formal application for such increase; and whether he will take such steps as may be necessary to ensure the payment of both pensions and arrears immediately?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThere is still, I am sorry to say, a considerable number of unpaid cases. Forms of application were sent out as soon as available to all pensioners affected, 1694 and all unpaid cases are under investigation. Of these, a great number are found to involve inquiries with other Departments, but every effort is being made to deal with them as rapidly as possible.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEHave the pre-War widows been paid their pensions?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI could not say without notice.
§ Mr. WHITEIn cases where a pensioner has not received an application form, where will he have to apply for it?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIf he is connected with the Army he will have to apply to the War Office; if he is connected with the Navy, the Admiralty.