Mr. MACLEANasked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that Mrs. Ward, 38, Hamilton Street, Govan, Glasgow, the widow of Private Francis Ward, No. 21581, Black Watch, who died in Shakespeare Hospital, Glasgow, was in receipt of the full widow's allowance for 14 months, when it was stopped to obtain evidence of the death of her husband; and that this case has been pending from 23rd September, 1920, during which time this widow has not received any pension; and whether he will cause investigation in this case to be carried through with greater expedition?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONNo award of widow's pension has been made in this case. The hon. Member probably has in mind advances which were made by the Local War Pensions Committee pending the decision given in August, 1920, that the disease of which the late soldier died was unconnected with service. The widow has appealed against this decision and the case is now under further consideration.
§ Major PRESCOTTasked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that the Pension Appeal Tribunal, Court No. 7, Central Offices, House of Lords, found that the death of Driver William Alfred Hobson, Chelsea, No. 11919, Royal Field Artillery, Case No. 7/2007, residing at 5, Sherboro Road, Tottenham, was due to active service during the great War; and 1308W that, although a written decision to this effect was communicated to the widow on the 14th February, no pension allowance has been made to her by the Ministry since July, 1920; whether he will explain the reason for the delay in making payment; and what action is being taken to speed up the work of his Department in regard to the settlement of this and similar awards?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI am communicating privately with my hon. and gallant Friend regarding the facts of this case?