§ Mr. Hewlettasked the Minister of Pensions the time taken to provide wheelchairs with motor attachments for war pensioners who have lost both lower limbs; what steps are being taken to expedite deliveries; and whether he will consider the provision of motor attachments by his Ministry instead of, as at present, from charitable funds.
§ Sir W. WomersleyI understand that owing to scarcity of labour and prior claims on engineering production the time taken to supply the special chairs fitted with motor units has varied during the past year from six weeks to twenty-four weeks. I am glad to say, however, that my Noble Friend the Minister of Works who undertakes the supply of invalid chairs on my behalf, has been instrumental in stimulating the output of motor units and that the position is already showing signs of improvement. As to the last part of the Question, the present arrangements have worked satisfactorily for many years and I see no reason for changing them.