ASSESSMENT (ALLEGED ERRORS). (Hansard, 14 February 1924)

23. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSON
asked the Minister of Pensions if he will extend to those pensioners whose pensions have already been reduced owing to alleged errors in original assessment the same opportunities of stating their side of the question to the Ministry which he is affording to those not yet dealt with

Mr. ROBERTS
Yes, Sir, all complaints made by any of the pensioners to whom the hon. Member refers will receive the same careful and sympathetic consideration. Complaints may be made personally or by letter through War Pensions Committees or to the Ministry, and I have no doubt that any pensioner who is dissatisfied with the Ministry's decision will take advantage of this arrangement.

§ Mr. SHORT
Can the right; hon. Gentleman explain why it is that errors have already occurred in these calculations which the Ministry is now having to correct

Mr. ROBERTS
No, Sir; I was not responsible for the inauguration of the system.

§ Mr. HOGGE
Can the right hon. Gentleman say what machinery in the Ministry will consider these complaints and decide

Mr. ROBERTS
That Will depend upon the nature of the appeal, but I have given directions that, if there he any doubt about the matter, it is to be brought to my personal notice.

§ Mr. CLIMIE
Will the right hon. Gentleman see that those who have had their pensions reduced on appeal are advised that a further appeal may be possible

Mr. ROBERTS
That point has been considered, but we thought that the public attention drawn to the matter by questions in this House to-day would be sufficient to show the pensioners that they need only send a letter to my Department to receive attention.