HC Deb 16 December 1935 vol 307 cc1385-6
25. Sir DOUGLAS THOMSON

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he will, in any circumstances, accept proof now of pre-war earnings, with a view to an alternative pension; and, if not, whether any alternative pensions have been awarded when earnings were not proved within the prescribed period?

Major GEORGE DAVIES (Vice-Chamberlain of the Household)

My hon. Friend has no general power to extend the prescribed period. The Royal Pension Warrant recognises no exceptions save for the rare cases, which occurred only in the early years after the War, in which proof of pre-war earnings could not have been established earlier for "some cause over which the pensioner had no control."

Sir D. THOMSON

Can the hon. and gallant Member say whether all pensioners were advised of the limited time in which they had to reply?

Major DAVIES

Not without notice.

26. Mr. SIMMONDS

asked the Minister of Pensions the number, during 1935, of widows' pensions granted by him and of applications for such pensions which he has refused?

Major DAVIES

During the 11 months ended 30th November last pensions were awarded to 655 widows of officers and of men of other ranks, and 1,141 claims were rejected.