HC Deb 13 March 1924 vol 170 cc2512-3
1. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSON

asked the Minister of Pensions if he will take steps to have the Royal Warrants so amended that local pensions committees may, if they think fit, authorise the payment of the travelling expenses of any relative, friend, or other person who, in their opinion, should accompany a pensioner laying his case before the appeals tribunal, in order that his claim may be adequately presented?

21. Captain Viscount CURZON

asked the Minister of Pensions whether the Government have yet come to a definite decision with reference to the representation of an appellant or the provision of expert assistance before the final appeal tribunal?

The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. Frederick Roberts)

As I informed the hon. and gallant Member for Loughborough (Brigadier-General Spears), last week, I am in consultation with the Lord Chancellor on these matters.

Mr. THOMSON

Is it not possible for the right hon. Gentleman, apart from the Lord Chancellor, to obtain powers whereby assistance can be given to pensioners appealing to the local pensions committee?

Mr. ROBERTS

I think it would be better to let the consultation conclude before I make any efforts in that direction.

Viscount CURZON

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that this matter will be pressed, and will not be unduly delayed by the conference which he is having with the Lord Chancellor?

Mr. ROBERTS

Certainly, I will give that assurance.

13. Mr. S. ROBERTS

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is prepared to allow the reopening of cases where the right of appeal to the House of Lords Pensions Appeal Tribunal has expired through lapse of time?

Mr. F. ROBERTS

The right of appeal is limited by Statute to the period of one year. I have, therefore, no authority to adopt this suggestion.

Mr. S. ROBERTS

Where there has been a change of circumstances and new facts have arisen, and where a prima facie case arises, will the right hon. Gentleman consider it?

Mr. F. ROBERTS

If the hon. Member can give me the facts of such cases, they certainly will be considered.