§ 1. Mr. CECIL WILSONasked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that Sergeant Hetherington, No. 53, Royal Engineers, of 104, Stubbin Lane, Sheffield, who was killed on 8th August, 1916, left an eldest son, Harry, who from birth has suffered from paralysis, so that he is not able either to wash or dress himself; that had the father lived this son would have been supported; and whether, under these circumstances, he will approve the continuation of a grant?
§ The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Major Tryon)The extension of a maintenance allowance for a child after the age of 16 is a temporary provision only, and cannot under the terms of the Warrant be continued beyond the age of 21. As the child in question has attained the latter age, I have no authority to continue the allowance.
§ Mr. WILSONIs this not a case which points to the necessity for some inquiry such as has been suggested for cases of this kind?
Major TYRONI am aware, of course, of the difficulty to which hon. Members refer, but I am not prepared to recommend so far-reaching an alteration, nor, I may say, were any of my predecessors.
§ Mr. R. MORRISONHas the right hon. Gentleman at his disposal any funds which might be used in exceptional cases?
§ Major TRYONI do not want to commit myself, but I think a solution of that kind might be a helpful way out.