§ 43. Dr. Michael Clarkasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will introduce a service pension or award, irrespective of any disability pension, for surviving far eastern prisoners of war.
§ Mr. WhitneyWhilst we have the greatest respect and sympathy for those who were prisoners-of-war in the far east, it would not be appropriate to introduce a pension or award for them solely because of that imprisonment. Those who suffered disablement as a result of service in the armed forces, including time spent as a prisoner-of-war, are eligible for a disablement pension under the war pensions scheme. Claims from ex-far eastern prisoners-of-war are given special and sympathetic consideration because of the particular circumstances of their captivity.