§ Mr. Matesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the operation of the rules concerning the backdating of claims to war pensions.
§ Dr. McDonaldasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will review the commencement date for the war pension award of Mr. Bertram Stevens who was contaminated by mustard gas at Bari harbour, Italy in 1943; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FowlerIn general, yes. However, following representations from the hon. Lady about the case of her constituent, Mr. Bertram Stevens, and also from my hon. Friend, I have undertaken a thorough review of Mr. Stevens' case.
Mr. Stevens was awarded a war pension from 24 November 1983, the date he made his claim. He has contended that he would have claimed sooner if he had been aware of the precise nature of the substance with which he had been contaminated. As a result of my review I have decided, in view of the exceptional circumstances, to backdate his pension to the date after discharge that his symptoms due to the Bari incident first manifested themselves. Full details of the revised award will be notified to Mr. Stevens as soon as possible.
I also propose that the cases of the 600 or so other casualties who were contaminated by mustard gas in the incident should be investigated to see whether similar action is appropriate.