Disabled War Pensioners

HC Deb 16 November 1953 vol 520 c1389

19. Mr. Crouch

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance the number of totally disabled war pensioners as at the 31st August, 1919, 1929, 1939, 1949 and 1953.

Mr. Peake

The approximate numbers were 41,000, 36,000, 27,000, 55,000 and 48,000, respectively.

Mr. Crouch

In view of the diminishing number of totally disabled people, could my right hon. Friend make a special concession to the veterans of the 1914–18 war, because there are not so many veterans of that war left now?

Mr. Peake

Although the number of pensioners has diminished in recent years, the total cost of pensions has increased, and I do not think I can accept the suggestion that a diminishing number of pensioners as such is a reason for increasing pensions.