HC Deb 17 December 1942 vol 385 cc2107-8W
Mr. W. Roberts

asked the Minister of Pensions, what is the total number of claims for pensions during this war that have not been granted?

Sir W. Womersley

As the majority of cases in which awards have not been granted relate to members who have been invalided from the Forces, and as it is not in the public interest to give figures relating to the number of discharges, I regret that I cannot give the information requested.

Mr. Roberts

asked the Minister of Pensions what steps have been taken to ascertain the total number of qualified medical practitioners not now in general practice who would be able and willing to act as members of appeal tribunals?

Sir W. Womersley

I have made inquiries of the bodies responsible for the allocation of medical men and of the Service Departments, but I have now arranged to set up a sub-committee of my Central Advisory Committee to assist me in a further examination of this problem.

Mr. Roberts

asked the Minister of Pensions what is the number of free working days in the last year available for taking cases of appeal' by the existing tribunal?

Sir W. Womersley

The work of the existing tribunals in England and Wales is controlled by my Noble Friend the Lord Chancellor, and I understand from his Department that members are engaged on a part-time basis and it is not possible to say to what extent they would be available for further service if this were asked of them.

Miss Ward

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is now in a position to state his decision in regard to granting constant attendance allowances to civilians injured by enemy action on the same conditions as applied to Service cases?

Sir W. Womersley

I am glad to have this opportunity of stating that I have obtained authority to give constant attendance allowances in civilian cases on similar conditions to those applying to a private soldier in the Army.