§ Mr. Stokesasked the Secretary of State for Air over what period of time disabled airmen who are discharged from the Service receive payment and allowances after 1967W their discharge; and whether special arrangements are made to assist these men, especially those who have suffered amputation, until such time as they are able to resume normal life and have been fitted, where required, with artificial limbs or equipment?
§ Sir A. SinclairR.A.F. pay and allowances cease to be issued to an airman as from the date of ids discharge. A disabled airman is discharged as soon as it is decided that he is permanently unfit for further service, but when an airman has lost a limb, discharge action is not taken until he is ready for the fitting of an artificial limb. Discharge action is also deferred in exceptional cases, chiefly those requiring surgical operation, where it is considered that further hospital treatment is necessary. After discharge, an airman may be retained in hospital as a free patient for a further period to enable him to get used to his artificial limb. The after-care of airmen invalided with disabilities attributable to war service is the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Pensions.