HC Deb 22 June 1931 vol 254 cc30-1
44. Mr. STEPHEN

asked the Minister of Pensions if the special arrangements for dealing with cases outside the seven years' limit make any provision for an appeal to an independent tribunal in cases where the claim is disallowed; and, if not, whether he will make additional arrangements so that in every case an applicant will have the right of appeal to such a tribunal?

The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. F. O. Roberts)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As I stated in the answer given to the Noble Lord the Member for South Dorset on 19th May, 1930, the arrangements now in force are considered to be preferable and in the best interests of the ex-service men concerned.

Mr. STEPHEN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Ministry is judge and jury in the case, and is there no opportunity of getting an independent tribunal?

Mr. ROBERTS

The arrangements we have made are working very satisfactorily. It may be useful to add that among the most difficult cases I am now asked to deal with are those coming back to me after having been to the appeal tribunal.

Mr. ROSS

Is there the slightest difference between the right hon. Gentleman's arrangements and those that existed before?