HC Deb 02 July 1942 vol 381 cc495-6
33. Mr. Lipson

asked the Minister of Pensions whether ex-Service men in receipt of a disability pension, who are called up for a further medical examination, can claim the full amount of earnings lost in consequence or whether the amount of compensation is limited to a maximum of 7s. 6d.; and is it made clear on the form sent to these men that they are entitled to apply for compensation for lost earnings?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Pensions (Mr. Paling)

The maximum compensation for loss of earnings in the circumstances referred to by the hon. Member was until recently 7s. 6d. in respect of any one day, but this sum has now been increased to 9s. 0d. Whilst the form used does not specifically mention compensation for loss of remunerative time, it is the practice at the time of medical examination to ascertain whether the absence from employment has resulted in financial loss. In order to remove any misunderstanding, my right hon. Friend proposes at the first opportunity to amend the form to include a reference to this provision.

Mr. Lipson

While thanking the hon. Gentleman for that concession, may I ask him whether he will take note that one of my constituents lost 11s. 10d. through having to undergo a medical examination and received only 9s. compensation? Is that fair?

Mr. Paling

I will take note of that.

34. Mr. Mathers

asked the Minister of Pensions whether, in view of the hardship which falls upon the wives and families of Service men who are killed in action, owing to the stoppage of war service grants in respect of instalment payments on furniture, &c., he will arrange to have these grants continued until the deceased man's commitments are fully met?

Mr. Paling

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to a similar Question put by the hon. Member for Wallsend (Miss Ward) on 27th January, a copy of which I am sending to him.

Mr. Mathers

As obviously it has not yet dawned on the Ministry of Pensions that this is an intolerable burden which cannot be allowed to continue, will my hon. Friend personally make representations to the Minister in order to have this undoubtedly unfair hardship removed?

Mr. Paling

I will certainly convey to my right hon. Friend what has been said by my hon. Friend, but he knows that war service grants were never meant to deal with pensions.