HC Deb 12 July 1928 vol 219 cc2427-9
3. Mr. F. ROBERTS

asked the Minister of Pensions why treatment allowances have been refused to Mr. J. McGuire, of 20, Morley Road, Barking, and his wife and child; and whether he is aware that Mr. McGuire has been in receipt of treatment allowances for the past seven years, and is at present undergoing treatment, and is in an advanced stage of tuberculosis, and that the reduction of his weekly income from £2 17s. 6d. a week to £2 a week will necessitate his going without the nourishing food that he requires?

Major TRYON

In the case referred to, which, in accordance with the usual practice, was dealt with in consultation with the local tuberculosis officer, it was found that the pensioner was no longer in receipt of any course of treatment which admitted of the payment of allowances under the Warrant. The assessment of the case was, however, reviewed and the man's pension was raised to the rate or 100 per cent.

Mr. ROBERTS

Will my right hon. Friend make a few further inquiries into this case to see whether the treatment ought not to be continued?

Major TRYON

I shall be very happy to inquire into the case.

7. Mr. SCURR

asked the Minister of Pensions whether, owing to the reduction of the number of area war pensions offices and the difficulty pensioners have in obtaining treatment, sometimes waiting six days, he will arrange that, in cases where treatment allowances are payable, they shall be paid from the date of application for treatment and not from the day that the pensioner is seen by a medical officer of the Ministry of Pensions?

Major TRYON

I know of no grounds for the suggestion in the first part of the question. Indeed, the waiting period for admission to hospital has actually been reduced. In any case, however, where exceptional delay should occur and it is desirable in the interests of the course of treatment to be given that the man should abstain from work pending admission to hospital, it has always been the practice to pay such allowances as from the first pay day following the man's medical examination. In these circumstances, I am unable to accept the suggestion of the hon. Member.