HC Deb 03 April 1941 vol 370 cc1158-9
41. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Minister of Pensions, how many claims for compensation he has received from civilians suffering from neurosis consequent upon enemy action; and how many have been acceded to?

The Minister of Pensions (Sir Walter Womersley)

These claims are not analysed according to disabilities, and I regret, therefore, that I am unable to furnish the figures asked for by the hon. Member.

Mr. Davies

Is it not a fact that some of these neurosis cases receive compensation from the State?

Sir W. Womersley

At the present time a number of these cases are under treatment.

42. Mr. Davies

asked the Minister of Pensions whether, for the convenience of all concerned, he will take the necessary steps to empower members of local authorities to attest pensioners' declarations?

Sir W. Womersley

The classes of persons who may attest pensioners' declarations is prescribed by Treasury Warrant. The list of such persons covers a very wide field and I have no evidence that pensioners, who normally are not called upon to complete life certificates more frequently than once every twelve months, are inconvenienced in procuring the necessary attestation.

Mr. Davies

Is the Minister aware that, owing to the dispersal of population consequent upon enemy action, it is very difficult in some districts to find magistrates and other people on the list? Will he consider this point?

Sir W. Womersley

The list is very extensive, but I will go through it again to see whether any improvement can be made. I am of opinion that it provides for these cases.

43. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that public assistance committees are having financially to assist women whose husbands, in civil occupation, have been killed by enemy action; and whether he will take action to guarantee to all women, who became widows through enemy action, adequate compensation to relieve them from seeking public assistance?

Sir W. Womersley

The widows of workers who have been killed by enemy action receive special temporary allowances at the rate of 50 shillings a week for the 10 weeks immediately after the husband's death. This is followed by the normal widow's pension. Ministry officers establish contact with such widows and put these allowances into payment immediately. These arrangements should obviate recourse to public assistance, but if the hon. Member has any particular case in mind I shall be happy to consider it.