Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY:

No complete record is available containing all the information desired by the hon. Member; but I may say that in the great majority of the cases reviewed the Ministry are able to concur in the recommendations of their local medical officers, though I am unable to state the exact proportions. I would point out with regard to both questions that the issue in these cases is not merely one of opinion as to assessment, but the question whether, exceptionally, a case which has received a final statutory settlement should be again considered, and a further grant made. On this point, while local medical officers may properly advise as to the medical condition of the case, the decision must rest with the Minister on the advice of his most experienced medical and other advisers. There is no board or similar authority at headquarters which has the duty of reviewing these cases.