HC Deb 01 December 1927 vol 211 cc671-2
3. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that in some cases a woman's pension in respect of a son killed in the late War is stopped on receipt of her old age pension; and what is the reason for this?

Major TRYON

Pensions granted by my Department on a basis of need are subject to adjustment if the pensioner's circumstances improve by an access of income from any source, in the same way that they may be increased if the circumstances become worse.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in these cases notice is given that the pension will be stopped altogether and that in some cases it is more than the old age pension, which makes a person worse off?

Major TRYON

I made inquiries this morning, and in the particular case the pensioner was better off owing to the addition of the old age pension.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

It is the case of a woman with 14s. per week, and notice was given to cut it off altogether if she got the old age pension of 10s.?

Major TRYON

My information was to the exact contrary, but I shall be happy to look into the matter.

Mr. HAYES

What is the saving to the pensions if deductions are made on account of old age pensions?

Major TRYON

Undoubtedly, there is a very clear gain to the pensioner under the combined schemes.

4. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL

asked the Minister of Pensions in how many cases pensions are not yet being paid to the widows or other de pendants of ex-service men whose death as the result of wounds received in the War took place three months or more prior to 26th November, 1927?

Major TRYON

Pension has been authorised in every case of death established to be the result of wounds received in the Great War in which a claim has been made in the period referred to by a widow or dependant eligible under the Royal Warrants.

Sir F. HALL

May I say that there is none outstanding on the basis of the question?

Major TRYON

Yes, on the basis of the question. There are six widows' claims and two dependants' claims, but none of these cases is connected with wounds.