§ Mr. Sharpasked the Minister of Pensions what is the approximate number of Service men and women on whose account War Service Grants are now being paid by his Department.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopApproximately 11,200.
§ Mr. Sharpasked the Minister of Pensions what are the conditions now governing the issue of a War Service Grant; and what is the average monthly rate at which new claims are now being admitted.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopThe conditions governing the issue of War Service Grants in the case of non-Regular members of the Forces have not changed since hostilities ceased. Such grants may be paid, within certain limits, to their families and dependants to relieve monetary difficulties arising from service. The assessment of the grant depends upon the extent to which the serving member can meet, from service pay and allowances and other means, his reasonable standing charges and at the same time provide for the living expenses of his family: or, where the serving member is unmarried, upon the actual pre-service contribution made to his dependants. In accordance with the terms of paragraph 29 of Cmd. 6715 on the Post-War Code of Pay, etc., for the Forces, grants are not now issued in respect of persons who enter into normal132W regular engagements. New claims are being admitted at an average rate of 200 a month.