asked the Prime Minister whether he has received from the Southwark Borough Council a resolution urging the amendment of the War Pensions Act, 1921; and whether the Government proposes to abolish the seven years' limit in respect of claims to pension, and establish a medical tribunal independent of the Ministry of Pensions to which men suffering from a renewal of their disability after pension had ceased could appeal for the re-issue of pension?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Lieut.-Colonel Stanley):

I have been asked to reply. The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Government are not prepared to adopt the suggestion made in the second part of the question.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that many of these men are under the impression that they do not get humane treatment from the medical officers, and will he consider the second part of the question?

Why is not the right hon. Gentleman prepared to consider legislation to give these men an opportunity?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY:

A reply was given on the 25th of last month stating why, and it was also stated very clearly by the Minister of Pensions in the Debate on the Estimates.

Has the hon. and gallant Gentleman received any other communication from any other local authorities, and how many, respecting this same matter?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY:

I could not answer that offhand.