Oral Answers to Questions — Armed Forces (Pensions and Grants).

– in the House of Commons at on 2 July 1942.

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Photo of Mr Daniel Lipson Mr Daniel Lipson , Cheltenham

asked the Minister of Pensions whether ex-Service men in receipt of a disability pension, who are called up for a further medical examination, can claim the full amount of earnings lost in consequence or whether the amount of compensation is limited to a maximum of 7s. 6d.; and is it made clear on the form sent to these men that they are entitled to apply for compensation for lost earnings?

Photo of Mr Wilfred Paling Mr Wilfred Paling , Wentworth

The maximum compensation for loss of earnings in the circumstances referred to by the hon. Member was until recently 7s. 6d. in respect of any one day, but this sum has now been increased to 9s. 0d. Whilst the form used does not specifically mention compensation for loss of remunerative time, it is the practice at the time of medical examination to ascertain whether the absence from employment has resulted in financial loss. In order to remove any misunderstanding, my right hon. Friend proposes at the first opportunity to amend the form to include a reference to this provision.

Photo of Mr Daniel Lipson Mr Daniel Lipson , Cheltenham

While thanking the hon. Gentleman for that concession, may I ask him whether he will take note that one of my constituents lost 11s. 10d. through having to undergo a medical examination and received only 9s. compensation? Is that fair?

Photo of Mr Wilfred Paling Mr Wilfred Paling , Wentworth

I will take note of that.

Photo of Mr George Mathers Mr George Mathers , Linlithgowshire

asked the Minister of Pensions whether, in view of the hardship which falls upon the wives and families of Service men who are killed in action, owing to the stoppage of war service grants in respect of instalment payments on furniture, &c., he will arrange to have these grants continued until the deceased man's commitments are fully met?

Photo of Mr Wilfred Paling Mr Wilfred Paling , Wentworth

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to a similar Question put by the hon. Member for Wallsend (Miss Ward) on 27th January, a copy of which I am sending to him.

Photo of Mr George Mathers Mr George Mathers , Linlithgowshire

As obviously it has not yet dawned on the Ministry of Pensions that this is an intolerable burden which cannot be allowed to continue, will my hon. Friend personally make representations to the Minister in order to have this undoubtedly unfair hardship removed?

Photo of Mr Wilfred Paling Mr Wilfred Paling , Wentworth

I will certainly convey to my right hon. Friend what has been said by my hon. Friend, but he knows that war service grants were never meant to deal with pensions.