5. Mr. BECKETTasked the Minister of Pensions if he will give the number of applicants for pensions, and the number refused, during 1926?
§ Major TRYONThe total number of claims for pensions of all classes in 1926 was 21,750. The number of these claims which were refused both by the Ministry and, where appeal was made, by the independent Appeal Tribunal also, is approximately 14,500.
Mr. BECKETTIn view of the fact that, speaking quickly, nearly 70 per cent. of the applications were refused, and in view of the fact, that the ex-service men and their dependants are in distress all over the country, cannot the right hon. Gentleman consider having an inquiry into the subject?
§ Major TRYONNo, Sir. As the War becomes more distant the number of valid claims naturally becomes less.
6. Mr. BECKETTasked the Minister of Pensions the number of pensioners on the 1st February, 1926, and 1927, respectively; and the number who have died during that period?
§ Major TRYONOn the 31st December, 1925 and 1926—the nearest dates to those stated in the question for which figures can be given—the number was 1,058,000 at the earlier date and 1.022,000 at the later date. The number of pensioners whose deaths were notified during the year 1926 was 19,550.
Mr. BECKETTIn view of the fact that the right hon. Gentleman, according to these figures, is rather rapidly engaged in depriving these men of their pensions—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is not a proper question to put.