§ 87. Sir W. Smithersasked the Minister of National Insurance why Mrs. Medhurst, Old London Road, Knockholt, has not received a pension; why there has been over six months' delay; and if he will take disciplinary action against the officials concerned.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsMrs. Medhurst received a pension order book at the 26s. rate on 9th May and the arrears of pension due were paid to her on 10th May. The exceptional time taken to settle her claim was due to its coinciding with the congestion arising in the office concerned with work arising out of the introduction of the new rates and conditions.
§ 90. Sir J. Mellorasked the Minister of National Insurance what steps he has taken to inform the public of the cause of the delay in complying with applications from many old age' pensioners for new pension books; and if he will identify any published information.
§ Mr. J. GriffithsAs stated in reply to the hon. Member on 5th May, the general circumstances in which delay has arisen have been fully explained to the House. These explanations have been widely reported in the Press and special talks have also been given in B.B.C. programmes. The fact that pensioners generally appreciate the position is evident from the way in which they have cooperated in the steps which have been taken in conjunction with the Assistance Board to overcome the difficulties.