§ 8. Mr. Simmonsasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance the assessments for amputation of leg just below mid-thigh and for amputation five-and-a-half inches from hip, respectively, payable to 1914–18 war pensioners under the 1919 Royal Warrants and at the present time; and if he will accept that the loss of function and amenities resulting from these disabilities is greater in advancing years, and warrants an increase in compensation payable.
§ Mr. PeakeThe assessments were 60 per cent. and 70 per cent. respectively under the 1919 Royal Warrant. These assessments were confirmed by an expert committee in 1946 as appropriate for all age-groups and have not since been altered. As regards the second part of the Question, I am unable on existing medical advice to discriminate between the elderly limbless and other classes of elderly war pensioners.
§ Mr. SimmonsWould the Minister reconsider that decision and, in looking at it, give as much weight to the experience of the limbless as to the opinion of the medical profession?
§ Mr. PeakeAt present, of course, this matter rests upon the unanimous findings of the 1946 Committee, known as the Hancock Committee, but, as the hon. Member also knows, there is a committee sitting at present under Sir Ernest Rock Carling, and the findings of that committee will have a bearing upon this matter.