§ 33. Mr. Lipsonasked the Minister of Pensions how many claims for pensions have been made by ex-service men during the past 12 months; how many have been granted; and how many refused?
§ Mr. RamsbothamDuring the 12 months ended 30th September, 1938, 2,778 applications were received (nearly half of which were from existing or former pensioners) for fresh disabilities claimed to be due to War service. The number established and accepted for pension or treatment during the same period was 497, and the number refused was 2,267.
§ Mr. LipsonIn view of the very large number of cases which have been refused, will my hon. Friend consider revising the regulations so as to enable more ex-service men to be entitled to pensions 1332 and to remove the grievance which so many of them feel that they have not had a square deal?
§ Mr. RamsbothamIn view of the fact that it is 20 years since the War, the percentage of successful applications is remarkable—18 per cent. now compared with 17 per cent. last year, and only 10 per cent. eight years ago.
§ Mr. LipsonDoes not my hon. Friend agree that the fact that it is now 20 years since the War is a good reason why these regulations should be revised?
§ Mr. T. SmithCan the Minister say how many of the 2,000 cases that were turned down were examined by a doctor responsible to the Minister?
§ Mr. RamsbothamNot without notice.