HC Deb 04 June 1942 vol 380 cc803-4
43. Mr. Parker

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that East Ham and Barking War Pensions Committee was constituted in 1922, when Barking's population was only 35,000; that Barking's estimated population in 1939 was 83,000, but that the borough still only has one representative; and whether he will give the borough more equitable representation when the present term of office of members ends in December?

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

The constitution of the East Ham and Barking War Pensions Committee provides that four members shall be local authority representatives. These are at present nominated as to three by feast Ham and as to one by Barking. The present period of membership of the committee terminates at the end of this year, when consideration will be given to the allocation of local authority membership on the committee.

44. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Minister of Pensions how many claims for pensions have been received and awarded, respectively, in neurosis cases, where there has been no physical injury, after treatment has failed in the recovery of the claimant?

Mr. Paling

I regret that this information is not available.

Mr. Davies

As this raises a very important issue, is it not essential that the hon. Gentleman should find out whether the Ministry have actually given any awards of any kind in these cases, apart from awards for physical injury?

Mr. Paling

We have given some awards.

Mr. Buchanan

Should we not know these facts, as many people have been refused?

Mr. Paling

It would entail a complete alteration of our system of keeping statistics. At present it would be very difficult, even if it were worth while, to do so.

Mr. Buchanan

Surely it is worth while to know how the Minister of Pensions is dealing with the rights of ex-Service men. Surely information should not be refused to the House of Commons on the question of granting or refusing such awards?

Mr. Stephen

Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider the speeches of the hon. Member for his own Division on this matter, previous to his taking office?

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