HC Deb 08 November 1920 vol 134 cc859-60W
Mr. FORREST

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he has received representations to the effect that the constant attendance allowance of 15s. for men who have lost both arms is quite inadequate at the present time; whether he will make inquiries into the adequacy of this allowance; and whether he can hold out any hope of its increase?

Major TRYON

The maximum constant attendance allowance of 20s. a week is always granted in double arm amputations where the man has lost both arms above the elbow. In cases, however, of amputation below the elbow, the man is, as experience has shown, in a markedly better position, both, from the point of view of fitment of artificial arms and of capacity for self-help; and in such cases the allowance is normally limited to 15s. a week. The difference of 5s. in the allowance well expresses the variation between the two classes of amputation. While not prepared to recommend any change in this general rule, my right, hon. Friend is always willing to consider any individual case of the latter type in which the circumstances are exceptional.