§ 68. Major CARVERasked the Minister of Pensions the number of persons whose pensions have been reduced within the last five years who have alternatively obtained a pension on the ground of incapacity for self-support and pecuniary need?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY of the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Lieut.-Colonel Headlam)The hon. and gallant Member is no doubt referring to pre-War dependence pensions granted to parents. A limited review of pensions of this class was undertaken some years ago, but this review was completed in 1924 and has not been repeated. A parent receiving a pre-War dependence pension, who becomes incapable of self-support, may apply for a need pension at any time that his or her financial and other circumstances justify an increased award on that ground.
§ 69. Mr. SMEDLEY CROOKEasked the Minister of Pensions the number of claims submitted outside the seven years for the period 1st January to 31st December, 1931; the number of such claims admitted; and the total number of claims that have been admitted outside the seven years' time limit?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMDuring the period referred to some 8,000 applications were received by the Ministry, and of the whole number of eases dealt with during this period, including, of course, a large number received before its commencement, about 780 cases received pension or other pecuniary grant and 65 were provided with treatment. The aggregate number of late applications that have at any time been admitted up to December, 1931, is about 3,000, including some 600 which required medical or surgical treatment only.
§ Mr. EVERARDHas the hon. Member reconsidered giving the right of appeal to those pensioners who are turned down by the Ministry and are outside the seven years' limit?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMThe Ministry is always ready to consider any appeals that are made after the seven years' limit.