§ Sir F. SANDERSONasked the Minister of Health if he is aware of the dissatisfaction which exists amongst 1553W claimants for widows' and old age pensions due to the delay in settlement of their claims, which in many cases extends over nearly 12 months; and, in view of the needy circumstances of the majority of the claimants, if he will expedite the work of his Department in order that these cases may be dealt with more speedily?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend is not aware of any general dissatisfaction regarding delays in the settlement of pension claims. The average time taken by the Department in deciding claims for widows' pensions is 31 days, and 40 days in the case of claims for old age pensions. As every case requires investigation on a number of points it will be recognised that a reasonable time must be allowed, but every effort is being made to expedite the settlement of claims.