HC Deb 18 April 1940 vol 359 cc1106-7
38. Mr. Tomlinson

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware of the application for a pension made by Mrs. E. J. Mullins, of 42, Rydal Avenue, Warrington, widow of Mr. Michael Mullins, late driver, Royal Army Service Corps; that Mullins was passed A1 on 4th January, reported at Shrewsbury on 10th January, and died from heart failure, caused by bronchitis, on 19th January; and whether, in view of the probability that death was attributable to the severe weather under Army conditions, Mrs. Mullins' claim for a pension will be reconsidered?

The Minister of Pensions (Sir Walter Womersley)

It has not been possible in the time available to obtain the papers regarding this case. I will, however, look into it and write to the hon. Member as soon as possible.

Mr. Tomlinson

Do the same conditions apply to other cases similar to this?

Sir W. Womersley

Yes, Sir, I have other cases to consider.

Mr. Tomlinson

May I further ask whether it can be assumed when an individual is passed A.1 by the authorities and afterwards while serving in the Army he contracts a disease from which he dies, that a case can be established for a pension?

Sir W. Womersley

It can be assumed that a case can be put to me for consideration.

Mr. Lawson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is an old grievance and that it really should receive very serious attention? If a man dies within a fortnight of joining the Service, is it not a logical conclusion that either there has been something wrong with the medical inspection of that man or else a pension should automatically be granted to his family?

Sir W. Womersley

I can assure the hon. Member that all these cases do receive careful consideration by myself personally. I do understand the feeling there is in this matter, in the House and in the country generally.

Mr. Silverman

In view of the feeling which the right hon. Gentleman appreciates, does he not think that the time has now come when some reconsideration might be given to the question whether there should be some opportunity for a third party to assist in these disputed cases instead of leaving the Minister to be the judge, jury and witness in his own case?

Sir W. Womersley

That is a question of policy to which I dare not venture to reply.