HC Deb 20 July 1925 vol 186 cc1820-1
33. Mr. ROBERT MORRISON

asked the Minister of Pensions how many legless men have had their constant attendance allowances either reduced or withdrawn since October last?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Lieut.-Colonel Stanley)

I fear that the records of the Department do not show the number of cases of the class of disability referred to in which the allowances have been either reduced or increased since the date mentioned.

34. Mr. MORRISON

asked the Minister of Pensions whether men with both legs off above the knee are still entitled to the maximum constant attendance allowance of £l per week?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave him on the 2nd March in reply to a similar question, of which I am sending him a copy.

Mr. MORRISON

Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman give any explanation why men with both legs off above the knee have been in receipt of £l per week constant attendance allowance, and are now having it stopped in some cases, and in some others cut down to 5s.?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

It has always been the case that in some cases of double leg amputation the amount of the allowance depends on the amount of Attendance that is necessary, and that is decided by medical examination in each case separately.

Mr. MORRISON

Does not the hon. and gallant Gentleman think a man who has lost both legs above the knee must be entitled to some constant attendance allowance?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

He may be entitled to some constant attendance allowance. The Minister stated some time ago that where there was a case of double amputation at the middle of the thigh or above, he was entitled to the fullest possible rate. Where it was less than that, every ease was examined and decided on its merits.

Mr. MORRISON

If I send particulars of a man with both legs off above the knee, who has lost his constant attendance allowance, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman examine it?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

I do not know if it is the same case the hon. Member sent before. If it is a different case, I shall be glad if he will send information.