HC Deb 24 May 1938 vol 336 cc1042-4
75. Sir John Smedley Crooke

asked the Minister of Pensions the number of War widows who have been deprived of their pensions on the ground that they have been judged unworthy during the three years 1935, 1936, and 1937?

The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Rams-botham)

The total numbers of widows whose pensions have been forfeited on the grounds of misconduct during the calendar years 1935, 1936 and 1937, were 292, 237 and 170 respectively.

Mr. Kelly

Were these widows faced with their accusers?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I cannot possibly say without notice.

Mr. Davidson

In view of the large number of cases as stated by the Minister, would it not be advisable for a full opportunity to be given to those accused women of knowing all the evidence against them?

Mr. Ramsbotham

Perhaps the hon. Member will put down that question at a later date.

Sir T. Moore

Will restoration be given to these widows in any circumstances?

Mr. Ramsbotham

That depends on the circumstances.

76. Sir J. Smedley Crooke

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is satisfied that the present procedure of securing evidence on which decisions are made depriving war widows of their widows' pensions on the ground that they have been or are unworthy, is strictly fair; and, as at present too much dependence is placed on evidence submitted to his inspectors by neighbours who may not always be friendly disposed, he will consider the advisability of revising the procedure in such a way as to remove doubt in the matter?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I am satisfied that the inquiries which are necessarily made in this class of case are properly carried out. The assumption in the second part of the question is not correct. In dealing with cases which fall within their jurisdiction, the Special Grants Committee carefully weigh all the information available, and the decision of forfeiture is not declared without the Committee being fully satisfied on the evidence as to the facts that it is justified.

Sir J. Smedley Crooke

Is my hon. Friend aware that this matter is causing widespread indignation and concern, and can he say why these War Widows are not allowed to face their accusers, as is done in every court of justice?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I have been very carefully into the work of the Special Grants Committee, and I am fully satisfied that it is carried out with complete justice to those concerned. It is not correct to speak of widows as being accused. They come before the War Pensions Committee, which exists to help the widows and see that complete justice is done.

Mr. Kelly

May we know the type of person who is engaged in gathering up this so-called evidence against the accused widows?

Mr. Thurtle

Is the Minister aware that these decisions are often determined by bitterly prejudiced spinsters?

Mr. Holdsworth

Would the hon. Gentleman consider meeting Members of every party in this House, and letting them state to him the experiences they have had?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I shall be glad to do so.