§ 12. Mr. HAYDAYasked the Minister of Pensions what was the total amount deducted during 1922 from pensions awarded to men in respect of disabilities due to War service?
§ Major TRYONI regret I have not the figure asked for. I may add that the bulk of deductions made are so made in respect of advances of pension which were granted to the man on the express understanding that they would be recovered if pension was ultimately awarded.
§ 20. Mr. JOHN GUESTasked the Minister of Pensions the amount deducted during 1922 from war pensions as awarded to pensioners resident within the Yorkshire regional area; and will he give the opinion of the Law Officers of the Crown as to the legality of these deductions?
§ Major TRYONI regret I have not the figure asked for. For the authority for these deductions, I must refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave him on the 1st instant.
§ Mr. GUESTIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that he has never stated as yet in this House that he has the authority of the Law Officers of the Crown for the deductions he is making? I will ask him now if he has authority for the deductions he is making in the case of a pensioner who has received an overpayment through the fault of the Ministry?
§ Major TRYONI understand that these cases are identical with cases in the Army and Civil Service, which are governed by legal decisions.
§ Mr. GUESTWill the right hon. Gentleman say definitely whether or not he has the authority of the Law Officers of the Crown for these deductions?
§ Major TRYONI have not the least doubt that the decision is absolutely sound legally. I understand that there is a ruling from the Chair which does not allow hon. Members to ask for the rulings of the Law Officers.