HC Deb 06 May 1920 vol 128 cc2246-7W
Mr. FOREMAN

asked the Minister of Health whether his Department accepts any liability for the 110 cases of blind soldiers in which a pension has been refused on the ground that their disability was due to their own misconduct, their own serious negligence, or the fact that it was not due to military service; and, if not, whether he will consider the desirability of ensuring that these men, whatever their misdeeds, may not become recipients of public charity only and possibly drift on to the streets to earn a casual livelihood?

Dr. ADDISON

I am unable to accept liability for individual cases of blindness, however caused. I feel sure, however, that the authorities of St. Dunstan's will be willing to accept any ex-service case of blindness if the circumstances properly permit them to do so.