§ Colonel ENGLANDasked the Minister of Pensions the number of applications for commutation of pension which have been received during the last 12 months and the proportion which have been approved; and whether, as such requests are usually based on the extension of the little businesses which the applicants have built up, he will insure that, so far as possible, effect is given to them?
§ Major TRYONApplications for commutation of pension were received in about 3,500 cases which were eligible so far as regards the qualifying condition that the man must be in receipt of a a permanent pension of more than the minimum specified by the Regulations. Not more than 330 were granted, of which only 125 were for the purpose of starting or developing businesses. The fullest consideration is always given to applications of this character, but it will be understood that a large number of them have, in any case, under the Regulations, to be refused on medical grounds. I have, moreover, to be satisfied, in the interests of the pensioner, that the prospects of success in the objects proposed are such that commutation will be to the distinct and permanent advantage of the man.