HC Deb 26 November 1925 vol 188 cc1564-5
2. Mr. W. BAKER

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that Mr. Walter Teague Grahame, No. 2486, Highland Light Infantry, had a claim for increased pension under the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1920, rejected because he resided in Canada; that Mr. Grahame was wrongly advised by the Canadian pension authorities to make the claim; that, as a consequence, he delayed claiming under the Royal Warrant of 1st November, 1920. with the result that he only received the Royal Warrant increases as from August, 1924; and that increases wore refused for the period 1st April, 1919, to 1st August, 1924; and whether, in view of the wrong official advice given in the first place by the Canadian authorities, ho will exercise his authority under the warrants to authorise the issue of 12 months' arrears?

Major TRYON

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given him in regard to this case on the 18th June last, which I have further explained in correspon- dence with him. I regret that I am unable to depart from the decision already given.

Mr. BAKER

Is this not a case in which the Minister has a very definite discretion which he can exercise?

Major TRYON

I do not think it is a case in which I could exercise such discretion.