§ 31. Lieut.-Colonel Liptonasked the Minister of Pensions what action he will take, arising from the large increase in the number of disabled ex-Service pensioners now shown to be drawing National Assistance.
Mr. AmoryThe increase in question is in line with the increase in the total number of persons receiving National Assistance. Our experience is that in general the need for National Assistance arises from causes other than war-disablement, but my welfare officers, who are in close touch with the National Assistance Board and employment exchanges, are always anxious to help and advise pensioners who are in any difficulty.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonAs the latest figures show that there are 21,700 disabled ex-Service men drawing National Assistance, an increase of 3,200 in 12 months, does this not indicate that the country is not adequately fulfilling its debt of honour to these men?
Mr. AmoryOne is very sorry that there should be any increase, but we must keep the figures in perspective. As a proportion of the total number of disabled, this is an increase of .5 of 1 per cent., from 2 .7 to 3.2. I believe that the majority of these men are persons whose war disability is only part of their aggregate disability, and it is usually a small part, and that makes the category extremely difficult to help more than I have been able to help it.
§ Mr. Wilfred PalingDoes the hon. Gentleman agree with the figures given by my hon. and gallant Friend?
Mr. AmoryI believe the figures given by the hon. and gallant Gentleman are correct, there being an increase of 3,000 in the total, but as a proportion of the total war disabled, that is an increase of only .5 of 1 per cent.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I hope to raise the matter again a little later, today perhaps.