HC Deb 19 June 1924 vol 174 cc2289-90
6. Mr. ROBERT MORRISON

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he has received any complaints that representatives of war pensions committees, when conducting cases before the appeals tribunals, do not get a fair chance of putting their cases, owing to the fact that part of the appellant's medical history, although in the possession of the area officers, is withheld from them; and whether he can make any statement or, this matter?

Mr. ROBERTS

I have received a resolution to the effect stated, but am satisfied that the contention is based upon a misunderstanding. A complete précis of all the medical history of the man as known to the Ministry is prepared for Ole tribunal in each case, and two copies of that document am sent to the man at least 10 days before the hearing. If the appellant has any objection to the précis any representations made to the Ministry before the hearing, or to the tribunal at the hearing, would receive full consideration. I am satisfied that the précis is prepared with care and with every intention to present cases fully and fairly.

Mr. MOLES

On his recent visit to Ireland was not the attention of the right hon. Gentleman called to specific cases of the kind indicated in the question?

Mr. ROBERTS

Yes: my attention was called to the matter.