§ 57. Major Milnerasked the Minister of Pensions whether he will give considertion to the case of men who have been passed by recruiting boards as fit for ser vice and are refused pensions on discharge, on the ground that their disabilities were present before enlistment?
§ Sir W. WomersleyI am glad to inform the House that, after considering this class of case in consultation with my Central Advisory Committee, I have come to the conclusion that, where effective service is found to have caused a degree of aggravation in a previously existing condition, the fact of discharge resulting from that condition would justify me in regarding the aggravation as material and thus bringing the case within the scope of the Royal Warrant. This can only be applied to cases in which men were definitely passed as fit on recruitment or mobilisation for war service. Cases of neurosis or psychosis will continue, as recommended by committees of specialists, to be dealt with primarily by way of treatment.
§ Major MilnerIs my right hon. Friend aware that this announcement, which will go a considerable way towards remedying a long-standing grievance, will give great satisfaction? Will the proposals be retrospective in operation?
§ Sir W. WomersleyYes, Sir, I have already commenced to deal with a large number of cases under the new system. Many cases which have been already dealt with can now be re-examined.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Cuthbert HeadlamWill this apply to reservists, as well as to recruits?
§ Sir W. WomersleyIt applies, as I have said, to all those who have had a medical examination and have been passed fit for service.