asked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that surgical shoes ordered by a disabled ex-Serviceman, of whose name he has been informed, through his Department on 12th October, 1946, have not yet been received; and, as this is causing financial and other hardship, if he will arrange for them to be delivered without further delay.

I am pleased to say that, in the case to which the hon. Member refers, the contractors have promised to despatch the shoes today.

While thanking my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask him if he will take steps to see that these disabled men get their shoes, because at the present time men in this position are unable to work?

We are very much concerned with this whole position, and I am glad to say that the step we have already taken has cut down delays considerably. We are aware of the trouble that still arises, and we are trying to deal with it as rapidly as possible.