§ Major KELLEYasked the Minister of Pensions how many cases have passed through the Pensions Appeal Medical Board, together with the proportion of successful and unsuccessful appeals?
§ Major TRYONSince their institution in November, 1919, medical appeal boards 1857W have examined approximately 126,000 officers and men. In 55 per cent. of the cases the assessment has not been altered, in 33 per cent. it has been raised, and in 12 per cent. it has been lowered. I am assuming that my hon. and gallant Friend refers to the Ministry's medical appeal boards; if, however, he has in mind the pensions appeal tribunals, I would refer him to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Attorney-General to the hon. Member for Workington (Mr. Cape) on the 14th March.
§ Mr. CLYNESasked the Lord Privy Seal whether, in view of the many complaints from disabled ex-service men regarding the treatment by the pensions appeal tribunals of their pension claims, he will agree to the appointment of a Select Committee of this House to inquire into this question?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINMy information does not agree with that of the right hon. Gentleman. I am informed that the present practice meets with the approval of the ex-service men's organisations and that they would be averse from any reversion to the old system. But if the right hon. Gentleman has any substantial complaints or constructive suggestions that he wishes to bring forward, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Pensions will be glad to arrange for a conference with him at which the Lord Chancellor would be represented.