HC Deb 01 May 1939 vol 346 cc1490-1
21. Mr. Tinker

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he will examine and give further consideration to the case of Thomas Arthur Minshull, 33, Garratt Hall Road, Mosley Common, Boothstown, in view of the fact that he is a helpless invalid owing to the shock his mother had when his father was killed in action in France shortly before the child was born; that there is only his widowed mother and sister to look after him, and they are put to great hardship in providing for and attending to him?

The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Ramsbotham)

As I have already informed the hon. Member, I have no authority under the Royal Warrant to continue any allowance in respect of Thomas Arthur Minshull in view of the fact that he is now over 21 years of age. His mother, however, continues to receive from my Department her widow's pen- sion of 26s. 8d. a week. As the case appears to be one which may be found to be eligible for assistance otherwise, I am communicating with the appropriate authority in the matter and will inform the hon. Member of the result as soon as possible.

Mr. Tinker

Is there no way by which this case can be helped? Cannot the hon. Gentleman send down one of his officials to see the lad himself and report to him?

Mr. Kirkwood

Is it not possible for the Minister in cases such as this—and I have had a similar case myself previously—to give a compassionate allowance?

Mr. Ramsbotham

As the hon. Member knows, I have viewed this case with great sympathy and have authorised during the past year a number of grants from the King's Fund to assist, and I am also endeavouring to get what help I can from other sources, but I am debarred by the Royal Warrant from giving an allowance.

Mr. Tinkers

Will the hon. Gentleman not send someone down to see the case, as this is such a special case that I would like him to know exactly what is happening there?

Mr. Ramsbotham

Perhaps the hon. Member will consult with me about that afterwards.

Mr. Stephen

Will not the hon. Gentleman introduce legislation to deal with these hard cases?

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