Colonel BURNasked the Minister of Pensions whether, under Section 2 of the War Pensions Act, 1921, he took steps to consult any persons or bodies locally 1713W before closing down the Pensions offices at Brixham and Paignton, and thereby necessitating the journey to Torquay and back by the pensioners, many of whom are unfitted to undertake it; and whether local opinion supported the closing down of these offices?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The scheme for the reorganisation of this district was not decided upon without the fullest consideration of all relevant circumstances, including local opinion. The position is being carefully watched, and should experience show the necessity for the occasional attendance of an officer at Brixham and Paignton, arrangements will be made to that end.