§ Lord APSLEYasked the Minister of Pensions in how many cases during the 274W last 12 months the Ministry's medical officers have overridden, in part or wholly, death certificates of pensioned ex-service men whose widows have made a claim for pension; and whether he is aware that there is a feeling of resentment felt when this policy is followed?
§ Major TRYONI am unable to give the figure asked for, but I may assure my Noble Friend that the fullest consideration is given to any statement by a deceased ex-service man's doctor, whether in the death certificate or elsewhere. It is, however, necessary for my medical advisers to consider, in the light of their wide experience, all the information in the possession of the Ministry and the facts and history of each case, both during service and since discharge, and on this basis to determine whether the certificate required by the Royal Warrant can be given.