HC Deb 07 February 1938 vol 331 c661
39. Mr. Marshall

asked the Minister of Pensions upon what grounds a claim to pension has been refused to Mrs. M. White, of 13, Tideswell Road, Sheffield, whose late husband was passed fit for War service in May, 1915, served in His Majesty's Forces without leave until October, 1918, and was in receipt of a War pension at the time of his death of £2 10s. per week?

The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Ramsbotham)

The case is one in which the fatal disability was worsened, but not caused, by the War service of the pensioner who was employed throughout as a nursing orderly. As an appeal has been entered against the Ministry's decision, the case will be the subject of further consideration, and I will communicate the result to the hon. Member as soon as a decision has been arrived at.

Mr. Marshall

Is the Minister aware that the widow's claim is that the disease from which her husband died was seriously aggravated by his War service, and is not that one of the conditions under which pensions can be granted; and will he not, in view of that fact, review the case before it goes to appeal?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I have heard the facts. The case is under appeal, and I do not think that it would be right for me to comment upon it at the moment.