§ 42. Mr. GROVESasked the Minister of Health the number of pensioners under the contributory scheme, i.e., 65 to 70 years of age, who have entered a rate-aided institution within the Poor Law union of West Ham during the present year to date for medical or surgical treatment, and who have had their pensions attached toward the cost of their maintenance, and give the number of cases where treatment exceeded three months' duration within the institution?
§ Sir K. WOODThis information is not in my right hon. Friend's possession, but he will ask the guardians if they can supply it and communicate with the hon. Member.
§ Mr. GROVESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, on the 21st November, 1927, the Financial Secretary to the Treasury stated in this House, in reply to a question from me, that these pensions are not attachable until these people have been in the central home under special medical care for 12 weeks; and is he also aware that the West Ham Guardians collect these moneys during the first week, and will he take steps to stop that practice?
§ Sir K. WOODI am not aware of that, but I have no doubt that what my hon. Friend the Financial Secretary said was in accordance with the facts.