§ 27. Mr. Thorneasked the Minister of Pensions whether he can give the House any information as to the demand made by him from an ex-service man for £25 12s. 6d. for medical treatment which was authorised and sanctioned by the Ministry; whether he is aware that the man is under the control of the East Ham Pension Committee and has been entitled to insured medical benefit since July, 1931; why the payment is now demanded; whether he is aware that the committee declare that the demand is illegal; and what action he intends taking about the matter?
§ The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Ramsbotham)The Royal Warrants allow me to bear only such expenses of treatment as are not otherwise provided for Periodical payments of medicines obtained by this officer have been made on the written undertaking given by him that, if he became eligible under the National Health Insurance Acts, he would inform the Ministry. It has recently been disclosed by him that he has been so eligible since July, 1931, and, at the officer's request, the Ministry is prepared to postpone recovery of the charges which were improperly imposed on public funds until September next, when deductions from pension by small quarterly payments will commence.