HC Deb 08 March 1928 vol 214 cc1195-6
6. Mr. HARDIE

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he has received any applications from ex-service organisations on the question of the seven years' limit; and whether any proposals are to be announced shortly?

Major TRYON

I have seen a Memorandum from Glasgow, which was not, however, addressed to me. Among other things it contains a misstatement of the position and practice of the Ministry in this matter. With regard to the latter part of the question, I have nothing to add to the statements I have already on more than one occasion made to the House regarding the arrangements which I have been empowered to make to consider exceptional cases arising beyond the time limit referred to.

Mr. HARDIE

If I present the right hon. Gentleman with cases will he then give me a reply?

Major TRYON

I shall be glad to consider any cases the hon. Member sends me. He has only sent four such cases in the last five years, and the first of those cases was rejected under the seven years' limit by the Labour Government.

Mr. OLIVER

Has the right hon. Gentleman had any request made to his Department, arising out of the seven years' arrangement for pensioners in whose case a new form of ailment supervenes, like neurasthenia, in consequence of the treatment that has been received and the number of operations they have undergone and who have been excluded from consideration on the ground of a seven years' limit?

Major TRYON

Any cases of that sort would be considered in the light of the evidence.

Mr. SMEDLEY CROOKE

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to alter the limit of seven years now, in view of the fact that the death of the late Earl Haig was certified as having been caused through service in the War?

Major TRYON

I am not prepared to reverse a decision which has been maintained by successive Governments and embodies the unanimous decision of the House of Commons, but I am prepared, as my hon. Friend knows well, to consider exceptional cases beyond the limit.

Mr. OLIVER

Does the original reply mean that the right hon: Gentleman does not contemplate any change in practice in regard to the seven years' limit?

Major TRYON

I am certainly not prepared to recommend a repeal of the law, but I am prepared to consider exceptional cases, and as far as my experience goes, exceptional cases are being dealt with satisfactorily.

Major OWEN

Is it not the fact that when applications are made to any area office after the seven years' limit they are always turned down?

Major TRYON

The hon. and gallant Gentleman is entirely misinformed. I wonder that he is not aware that I have already informed the House that a considerable number of these cases have gone through, and arrangements are in force under which any evidence in support of cases outside the seven years' limit can be considered.

Major OWEN

Have those cases to be submitted to the Minister, or are they considered at the area office?

Major TRYON

They are, of course, dealt with in the first instance at the area office.