§ 4. Mr. DONALDasked the Minister of Pensions the maximum pension allowed to a widow of 62 years of age who lost two sons in the War; whether he is aware that Mrs. Bell, of 2, Erskine Street, Belfast, who lost two sons in the War, never received more than 15s. per we k pension, plus 3s. bonus; that this was reduced in June, 1920, to 11s., plus 3s. bonus, and in September last Mrs. Bell's pension was stopped altogether by the local War pensions committee; whether steps will be taken to renew this woman's pension with arrears due; and, as the case is one of extreme hardship, could supplementary assistance also be given?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI am informed that Mrs. Bell was not dependent upon either of her two sons prior to enlistment, and is not therefore eligible for a pre-War dependency pension. She was, however, at the time of application eligible for and was awarded a pension on the basis of pecuniary need at the maximum rate of 18s. a week under Article 21 (1) (b) of the Royal Warrant. This class of pension is dependent on the financial circumstances of the applicant and her household, and is subject to review from time to time. As the circumstances of Mrs. Bell and her household very materially improved, so as no longer to justify a pension on the ground of need, the pension had to be reduced, and was finally discontinued. I may add, that should her circumstances change, the case would be at once re-considered. Mrs. Bell may, however, be entitled to the flat rate pension of 5s. a week in respect of each son, but she has so far, in spite of application, failed to supply the necessary information for the award of this pension. With regard to the suggestion of supplementary assistance, I may say that I am informed that Mrs. Bell is earning a wage of 1905 £2 18s. 6d. a week, and would therefore he ineligible for any such assistance.
§ Mr. DONALDIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this widow is 62 years of age and that she fell three months ago and broke her wrist and how then can she earn £2 18s. per week. This widow is appealing out of real hardship and it is a shame that she has to go out to work when she lost two sons in the War and who were her support. I hope the right hon. Gentleman will reconsider the case?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe facts presented to me bear out what I say. She is earning £2 18s. 6d. per week and I am precluded from taking any action.
§ Mr. DONALDIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I had an interview with this widow myself. [Laughter.] This is no laughing matter. The lady has a broken wrist. It is rediculous to say that she is earning £2 18s. per week.
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI said I am quite willing to look into the case if my hon. Friend will produce any fresh evidence and to carefully consider it, but so long as I am informed she is earning that sum I cannot intervene.