HC Deb 14 March 1950 vol 472 cc912-3
43. Mr. L. M. Lever

asked the Minister of Pensions the numbers of war disability pensioners who have died since 1st January, 1946; the numbers of such men who were pensioned for ailments and wounds; the numbers of widows' pensions awarded in respect of each group; and whether he is satisfied that the full effects of severe wounds are taken into consideration.

Mr. Marquand

Some 54,000 male disablement pensioners of whom 31,400 were married, died between 1st January, 1946, and 31st December, 1949; 36,000 were pensioned for diseases and 18,000 for trauma.

The number of widows' claims arising from these particular deaths cannot readily be ascertained, but during the same period 31,228 awards were made to widows, including widows whose husbands died while serving. A complete record of the disabilities in these cases is not immediately available but an examination of 21,000 cases shows 13,500 instances of disease and 7,500 of trauma.

I am satisfied that all relevant factors including the full effects of severe wounds are taken into consideration in deciding widows' claims and that the benefit of any reasonable doubt is always given.

Mr. Lever

In the case of ailments, is the Minister aware that there is not much difficulty about pensions being granted to widows in this category, but is he also aware that many of these widows are the widows of wounded men who were certified for pensions because they were suffering from wounds, but who ultimately died of ailments? Is the Minister further aware that in very rare cases are pensions granted to widows of men badly mutilated?

Mr. Marquand

My hon. Friend must bear in mind that all these widows have the right of appeal against the rejection of their claims, and further many of them are insured, as are all our citizens, and received widows' pensions from the Ministry of National Insurance if they fail to qualify under the Royal Warrant.

Mr. Lever

Is my right hon. Friend prepared to receive a deputation from the British Limbless Ex-Service Men's Association to consider this problem further?

Mr. Marquand

Yes, Sir. I have discussed it very fully with them already, but if they wish to see me again, of course I am ready to receive them.