HC Deb 31 July 1941 vol 373 cc1567-8W
Mr. Henderson Stewart

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he has considered the representations of the British Legion (Scotland) for the establishment of appeal tribunals, on lines similar to those adopted in respect of claims arising out of the last war; and what decision has been reached?

Sir W. Womersley

Yes, Sir. I explained fully to the House in the course of the Debate on the Motion for the Adjournment on 16th July why a general system of appeals to independent pensions appeal tribunals would be impracticable under the conditions of this war. The reasons have been made known to the Scottish Legion quite recently.

Viscountess Astor

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he will consider introducing a scheme of alternative pensions, such as was provided by Royal Warrant in 1919, in respect of casualties arising out of the present war?

Sir W. Womersley

No, Sir. The alternative pensions provisions of the Great War Royal Warrant proved gene rally unsatisfactory, being both difficult to administer and unsuccessful in achieving the desired results.

Major Lloyd

asked the Minister of Pensions whether any dependant's allowance is payable to a widow in receipt of a pension under the Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme, in respect of an in valid or mentally deficient child over the age of 15, who had been supported by the husband prior to his death; and, if not, whether he will consider the desirability of amending the scheme so as to enable allowances to be paid in such cases?

Sir W. Womersley

The provision made in the Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme for dependent children is considered to be reasonably adequate having regard to the existing facilities available for defective children out of public funds.

Colonel Carver

asked the Minister of Pensions why pensions are not allowed to dependants of seamen who may lose their lives while engaged homeward bound with a war cargo, and whose ship may founder owing to storm and tempest; and, as these men risk their lives in the country's service, will he see that adequate provision be made for dependants?

Sir W. Womersley

While the Mercantile Marine schemes make special provision for the dependants of merchant seamen who lose their lives at sea through enemy action, the results of the normal perils of their calling rightly continue to be compensated under the Workmen's Compensation Act, as in the case of other civilians employed on war work.