HC Deb 30 June 1921 vol 143 cc2303-4
1. Mr. A. SHORT

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that Sapper James Micklin, No. 12,105, Royal Engineers, has since May, 1918, been under treatment for tuberculosis at the Moxley sanatorium, Wednesbury; that he has been in receipt of full allowance until 8th June last; that he has now been informed by the regional director that a final allowance of £1 per week will be made for a further six weeks only; and that he is so ill as to be unable to work; and will he have a thorough investigation made into this case?

The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. Macpherson)

I regret that in the short time available I have not been able to obtain the full facts of this case from the Birmingham regional office, but I will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as possible.

2. Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALL

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that H. Ballard, of 37, Lydford Road, Paddington, late of the Royal Garrison Artillery, lost a leg above the knee during the War; that Ballard, who is still unable to take employment, is in receipt of 24s. a week, upon which he is entirely dependent for his livelihood; and that, although this man has been medically certified as unfit to work for the present, his treatment allowance has just been stopped; and if he will inquire into this case?

Mr. MACPHERSON

This man re-received treatment and allowances for the eight weeks ending 23rd June, when it was medically certified that no further treatment was necessary, and payment of pension at the scheduled rate appropriate to his disablement was accordingly resumed. Treatment allowances can only be paid under the Warrant while treatment continues and while the man is, in consequence of the treatment, unable to work.

Sir F. HALL

To what amount would this poor man have been entitled if, instead of going to the War, he had stayed at home, and earned the wages that were applicable in his case? What unemployment benefit would he have had?

Mr. MACPHERSON

That is a question for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour. I have stated the full amount.

Sir F. HALL

He would have done a great deal better by staying at home.