§ Colonel ASHLEYasked the Pensions Ministry whether, in view of the fact that 21s. is now the weekly wage, irrespective of food, clothing, and accommodation, of soldiers in the Army of Occupation, whereas only 27s. 6d. a week, plus a temporary bonus of 20 per cent., has to suffice for all the possible requirements of a totally incapacitated man, he will consider an immediate increase of the pension in the case of total incapacity?
1607W
§ Sir J. CRAIGThe statement in the question that 27s. 6d. with 20 per cent. bonus (i.e., 33s.) has to suffice for all possible requirements of a totally incapacitated man is not correct. In addition to the 33s. the totally incapacitated man receives children's allowances, and if his disablement is such that he needs the constant attendance of another person he maybe given a special allowance up to 20s. a week. He may also be given, as part of his treatment, extra nourishment up to a cost of 10s. a week, where it is certified that his condition requires it. I am, however, reviewing the pension scale.