Mr. MACLEANasked the Minister of Pensions whether he has received any representation from any local pensions committee to the effect that, where a man has been on treatment for two years, he should be granted a permanent pension, or sooner if the decision of the medical man is that the man's disability or disease is likely to be permanent; and whether he is prepared to give sympathetic consideration to such a recommendation?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONUnder existing practice, award of pension is made permanent when the medical advisers of the Department are able to certify that the disablement has reached a final and stationary condition. Of late I have received many representations in favour of the award of permanent pensions within specified periods, and I am now having the question thoroughly examined. The hon. Member, will, however, understand that the matter is one of great complexity, which requires very careful consideration in the interests both of the State and of the disabled men.