HC Deb 28 November 1934 vol 295 cc843-4
47. Mr. WHITESIDE

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office the number of officers and men discharged from the Army as medically unfit during the last 12 months for which statistics are avalaible; and the number of those who are in receipt of pensions?

Sir GEORGE PENNY (Comptroller of the Household)

I have been asked to reply. 23 officers were invalided from the Army during the twelve months ending 30th September, 1934. 19 of these officers are in receipt of retired pay, which in 8 cases contains an element in respect of disability attributable to service. As regards other ranks, 1,730 applications for disability grants were received during this period. Pension was awarded in 319 cases, and gratuity in 799 cases, the bulk of the latter being cases of disabilities not attributable to service.

Mr. WHITESIDE

In view of the apparent uncertainty which exists in regard to the payment of compensation consequent upon dismissal through sickness, will the hon. Gentleman convey to the Financial Secretary the desirability of taking steps to see that all men are made cognisant of this fact?

Sir G. PENNY

I will convey the request of my hon. Friend to my right hon. Friend.