§ 73. Mr. SWANasked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that the 20 per cent. pension to ex-Sergeant Charles Johnson, 2nd Battalion East Yorkshire Regiment, is not being paid to him after being granted at Durham City Medical Board on 8th April, 1921; that he is still suffering from the effects of his military service; that he has a large family and an ailing wife dependent upon him; and will he have inquiries made into the case?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe disability in this case was only accepted as having been aggravated by service, and as the Pensions Appeal Tribunal have confirmed, and thus made final, the decision of the Ministry that aggravation has passed away, I regret that the case cannot be re-opened.
§ Mr. SWANIs it not a fact that this man never suffered a lay's ill-health before he went into the Army, but since he has returned he cannot earn his maintenance and his family is handicapped?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI have pointed out already that this man has appealed to the Appeal Tribunal, over which I have no power of control. Their judgment is final.
Sir F. HALLDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think the time has arrived 1721 when it is possible to reduce the number of medical officers on these medical boards?
§ Mr. SPEAKERNotice should be given of that question. It does not arise.