Mr. ALFRED T. DAVIESasked the Minister of Pensions whether Army doctors only are now recognised by the Ministry in the examination of war pensioners; and whether there are any, and, if so, what objections to the appointment of medical men not connected with the Army to deal with these cases or to assist in dealing with them, considering the prejudice which has arisen against panels composed entirely of practitioners in the service of the Army?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. Subject to the over-riding considerations of medical qualifications and experience—specialist or other—preference is given to medical practitioners who have seen service in the Great War. I may add that by far the greater number of medical men in the employ of the Ministry have had no connection with Army service other than their temporary service in the late War.