§ 28 and 29. Major COHENasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air (1) whether he is aware that dissatisfaction 1945 exists amongst ex-service men regarding the rates of pension laid down for the widows of officers of the rank of flight-lieutenant downwards and the widows of other ranks; and whether he is prepared to consider increasing the pensions laid down, in accordance with the reresentations made by the British Legion on 10th April, 1924?
(2) whether he is aware that dissatisfaction exists amongst ex-service officers and men discharged since the official termination of the War, and the dependants of officers and men killed since that date, because they have no right of appeal against decisions of the Air Ministry in connection with their claims for pension; and whether he is prepared to accede to the request, made by the British Legion on the 10th April, 1924, to extend to such officers, men, and dependants the same right of appeal to the House of Lords independent tribunal as is enjoyed by the great War applicants.
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Mr. Leach)I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the reply given yesterday to the similar questions addressed by him to my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty.
§ Major COHENIs the hon. Gentleman aware that this question has been under consideration for over three months, and can he say whether a decision is likely to be arrived at soon?
§ Mr. LEACHIt will not be many days before a decision is arrived at. The three Services are involved, and that has tended to lengthen the discussion in the negotiations.