§ 31. Sir Waldron Smithersasked the Minister of National Insurance why there 195 has been a delay of several months in dealing with the claim for the increased pension of 16s. made in respect of the wife of Mr. H. Field, 12, Beechwood Avenue, Farnborough, Kent; and whether he will take immediate steps to decide this claim.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsThe hon. Member will be glad to know that an increase of 16s. a week in the rate of Mr. Field's retirement pension has been awarded to him in respect of his wife. An order book, together with a postal draft in payment of the arrears due, was issued to him on 11th November.
§ Sir W. SmithersCan the Minister explain why this correspondence with Mr. Field has been going round and round in a vicious circle for over five months, from Blackpool to Bromley; and is he aware that in 1944 I warned him that the administration of this scheme would break down, as it has?
§ Mr. GriffithsI am very glad to say, having regard to the magnitude of the scheme, that it is going reasonably well. I am sorry there was a delay in this case, but it was one of those cases which happened during the transition period. As from 5th July all these cases have been dealt with through our local offices, and we are doing our very best to make the scheme work.
§ Mr. SpeakerMr. Janner.
§ Sir W. SmithersOn a point of Order. May I ask the Minister if he will take disciplinary action against——
§ Mr. SpeakerWe have got only as far as Question No. 32 in 41 minutes, and we really must be quicker.