HC Deb 22 June 1922 vol 155 cc1472-3
6. Mr. C. WHITE

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that, in the cases of thousands of ex-service men who were discharged from the Service with disability caused entirely by War service, they are now informed by the Ministry of Pensions that their disability was only aggravated by War service, though in many cases their disability has increased; and whether, in order to remedy the injustices that are being perpetrated, he will take such steps as are necessary to enable men to take their cases to the Central Appeals Tribunal?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The cases referred to represent a very small proportion of the whole body of pensioners, and no change of the nature mentioned is made without a definite medical certificate to the effect that the entitlement originally conceded was obviously wrong. The man is always informed of the alteration, and advised of his right of appeal to the Pensions Appeal Tribunal.

Mr. WHITE

Is it not a fact that there are hundreds of these men at the present moment being reduced from the "attributable "to the "aggravated," their pensions ultimately being stopped altogether, without any adequate reason?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I think my hon. Friend must be misinformed.

Mr. WHITE

I know cases.

Mr. MACPHERSON

If my hon. Friend knows any cases where no reason is given, I shall be glad to have them.

Mr. WHITE

The right hon. Gentleman shall have some.