HC Deb 09 July 1956 vol 556 cc3-4
6. Mr. Simmons

asked the Minister of Health if he will arrange with the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance that a representative of the Ministry of Health, who is competent to deal with those problems of the war disabled which now come under his jurisdiction, attends the meetings of the Central Advisory Committee of the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance.

Mr. Turton

I will consider this suggestion with my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Simmons

Is the Minister aware that our experience in the old Ministry of Pensions was that this Central Advisory Committee was of great assistance to the Minister, as it brought in the members of war pensions committees up and down the country? Is he aware that there is great dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the arrangements concerning tricycles and limbs at present, and will he give very sympathetic consideration to meeting the growing dissatisfaction by giving the pensioners some sense of real consultation?

Mr. Turton

I am considering this question at the present time, but if any representatives of war disabled men wish to come to see me about the position with regard to tricycles, I hope they will do so, for I shall be very ready to receive them at any time—in fact, I am receiving one deputation in a fortnight's time.

Mr. J. Griffiths

When considering this question of providing for those who are interested in disablement pensions some voice in this Central Advisory Committee, will the Minister discuss with the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance the advisability of having representation of disabled persons on the local committees set up under the National Insurance Act?

Mr. Turton

Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will put that question down to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance.