HC Deb 09 May 1922 vol 153 cc2033-4W
Mr. R. YOUNG

asked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that Pioneer John Arthur Parr, 349880, Royal Engineers, while on service contracted influenza and pneumonia, and on recovery was put under canvas, to which his later illnesses, due to consumption, are apparently attributable; that he applied for a pension on 5th September, 1921, and has since then been in a sanatorium for some time, yet no reply to his application has been received; and, as this man has no income, will he expedite the consideration of his claim for a pension?

Major TRYON

I regret that I have not been able to identify this case from the particulars given. Perhaps my hon. Friend will let me have any further information in his possession?

Mr. G. BARKER

asked the Minister of Pensions if he will consider the claim for pension of William Richard Charles Buffin, No. 447062, Labour Corps, who enlisted at Abertillery on 11th December, 1915, was certified A1, and sent to France, was discharged from the Army 1st March, 1919, as having suffered impairments since entry into the Army, and granted a temporary pension of 34s. 6d. per week; and if he is aware that this man is now totally blind in the right eye, has a wife and four children depending upon him,, and although discharged as being impaired by military service is receiving no pension?

Mr. MACPHERSON

After full consideration the Ministry were unable to accept this man's disability as either due to or aggravated by his service; and this decision having been confirmed by the Pensions Appeal Tribunal, he is not en- titled to any compensation from the Ministry beyond the grant already made under Article 7 of the Royal Warrant.

Mr. BARKER

asked the Minister of Pensions if he will further consider the claim to an increase of pension of Private John Godwin, No. 20288, 1st Monmouthshire Regiment, at present residing at 64, Railway Street, Llanhilleth, and discharged from the service on 8th May, 1916, through disablement certified to be attributable to war service; and is he aware that this man is only receiving a 20 per cent. disability pension, though he is totally unable to work and has a wife and five children to maintain?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to him on the 2nd March. If the man claims that his condition has grown substantially worse since he was examined by the Medical Appeal Board he should consult his local committee.