§ 22. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Health if he will explain the cause of the delay in settling claims for widows' pensions under the Widows', Orphans', and Old Age Contributory Pensions Act, 1925; and why in some cases several months elapse before a decision is reached?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am not aware that there is undue delay in settling claims for pensions. In individual cases where delay arises it is generally due to the inability of claimants to furnish the information necessary for a decision. The hon. Member will appreciate that the number of rejections would be materially increased if it were not the practice of the Department, to render the fullest assistance to claimants in obtaining the information necessary to establish title.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are cases current at the present moment, in which applications have been made and the forms filled up and signed at least three months ago; and can he not facilitate the settlement of claims of that kind?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINPerhaps if the hon. Member has a particular case in mind, he will send to me particulars of it.