§ 33. Mr. RADFORDasked the Minister of Pensions if ho will consider the advisability of altering the present procedure necessary to the issue of the pension to dependants when a pensioned man is sprit to hospital by his private doctor for treatment for his pensionable disability?
§ Major TRYONI am not clear what alteration of the present procedure my hon. Friend has in mind. The regulations of the Ministry have always provided for payment of treatment allowances or pension to dependants whilst a man is undergoing approved treatment for his pensionable disability.
§ Mr. RADFORDIs it not a fact that the dependants of pensionable men have had to apply to the guardians during the three weeks that inquiries are being pursued?
§ Major TRYONIn the event of the Ministry being liable for treatment and giving the treatment to the man, the question of the guardians does not arise; for while the man is in hospital the allowance goes to the wife and children.
§ Mr. HAYESIs it not the fact that much delay arises in these allowanced, and that the board of guardians came in, and that representations have been made?
§ Major TRYONI am not aware of the delay suggested. Of course, when a man goes into a hospital or when he comes out again, it is difficult to deal with the precise moment. But I am always very anxious to consider any suggestions that may be made for improving our administrative procedure.