§ 8. Major PROCTERasked the Home Secretary on what principle he based the reduction of the pension of ex-Police Constable Pattenden by 18s. a week; and whether, as reductions of this nature are likely to lead to a disinclination by the police to risk their lives when confronted by armed criminals, he will reconsider this matter and also ensure more generous treatment of such cases in future?
Captain CROOKSHANKUnder the Police Pensions Act any special pension has to be granted for aperiod at the end of which the pensioner is medically examined, and if his degree of disablement has substantially altered the pension must be reassessed accordingly. The application of this provision to Pattenden's case resulted in the reduction of his pension: and the reduction has been confirmed after appeal to an independent medical referee. In view of the result of the appeal my right hon. Friend would in any event have no power to waive the reduction: but he is satisfied from the medical reports that the pensioner is being treated generously.
§ Major PROCTERIs my hon. and gallant Friend aware that the earning capacity of this ex-constable is reduced by 50 per cent.; and, if that be so, does he not think the principle upon which this decision has been based is wrong?
Captain CROOKSHANKWhether the principle is right or wrong, this matter has been dealt with under the Police Pensions Act, and I have satisfied myself, as has my right hon. Friend, that very careful attention was given to the case and that the man was well treated.
§ Mr. PIKEIn these medical examinations, is the actual ultimate earning capacity of the man taken into consideration as a primary issue?