§ Mr. R. YOUNGasked the Minister of Pensions whether his attention has been called to the published opinion of the chairman of the Northampton Board of Guardians in reference to the Ministry's treatment of ex-service men suffering from tuberculosis wherein he is reported as saying that these cases are becoming somewhat of a scandal; that all sorts of mean tricks are resorted to in order to push the men's claims on one side while the men are reduced to paupers; whether he will make inquiries as to the foundation for such charges in Northampton or elsewhere; and whether he proposes to take any steps to restore confidence among ex-service men that no injustice is being done to men suffering from tuberculosis or similar ailments?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe incident which I gather my hon. Friend has in mind was investigated by the Ministry, and it was found that the Press statement had reference to a particular case in which the Ministry's rejection of a claim to pension had been confirmed on appeal by an appeal tribunal. I personally received a deputation of those interested in the case and explained the situation to them. I am satisfied that there is no foundation for the charges made in the Press notice.