asked the Minister of Pensions whether, in view of the fact that a large number of dependants of men serving in His Majesty's forces are unable to meet the expense of private medical treatment, he will arrange to provide medical facilities for them as are provided for panel patients?

I am not aware of any evidence to support the hon. and gallant Member's suggestion, having regard to the recent improvement in the scheme of War Service Grants, which now provides not only for a minimum standard of maintenance but also for grants towards the expenses resulting from serious and prolonged illness in the household.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that it is within my own knowledge that the wife of a serving soldier was presented with a bill from her own medical attendant amounting to £12 and would he in that case be able to put it before the War Service Grants Committee?

That is precisely the kind of case we have in mind for this scheme, and if it comes within the terms of the scheme, it can be dealt with.