HC Deb 26 November 1946 vol 430 cc1399-400
30. Lieut.-Commander Clark Hutchison

asked the Minister of Pensions what steps he proposes to take to ensure that men who are conscripted under the new compulsory military service scheme and who suffer injury will become eligible for disability pensions; and what arrangements he will make to provide for a right of appeal in the case of rejected claims.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Men called up for compulsory service who are disabled in consequence of that service at present come within the scope of the war pensions instruments and have the right of appeal to the pensions appeal tribunal. The existing instruments cover cases arising before the date to be declared, for war pensions purposes, to be the end of the war emergency.

Lieut.-Commander Hutchison

But will the existing rules cover these cases when the new compulsory service legislation is introduced? That is the point of the Question.

Mr. Blenkinsop

The question has not yet arisen, but I am prepared to keep in mind the hon. and gallant Gentleman's views on the matter.

Lieut.-Commander Hutchison

Cannot the Minister give us an assurance that he will—

Mr. Speaker

rose.