§ 42. Mr. L. M. Leverasked the Minister of Pensions the daily rate of allowance paid for necessary attendance on war pensioners who have lost an arm and a leg or both legs just below mid-thigh; the maximum daily rate payable in respect of attendance on pensioners who are helpless; and whether he is satisfied that the present rates are adequate in the light of present-day values.
§ Mr. MarquandThe rate of the additional allowance for attendance payable to a pensioner receiving 100 per cent. pension depends on the amount of personal assistance required. Normally the allowance for a man who has lost an arm and a leg or who has lost both legs below mid-thigh would be 10s. weekly. The maximum rate of the allowance payable to a pensioner who is helpless is 40s. weekly. The rates were revised in January, 1947, and were further reviewed in September, 1948. The present allowances represent a substantial improvement both in amounts and scope over the allowances payable before 1947, and I am satisfied that they do not call for further review at present.
§ Mr. LeverIn view of the fact that these rates were last reviewed in September, 1948, and that many of those so disabled are suffering financial hardship in consequence of the inadequacy of these allowances, will my right hon. Friend take steps to see that an improvement is made in them?
§ Mr. MarquandI am not aware that many are suffering financial hardship, but if my hon. Friend or any other hon. Member has individual cases where he feels that hardship is suffered, I shall be only too pleased to look into them.