asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that Private William Whyte (74029) was discharged from the Army, on 29th July, 1940, after more than ten years of service, on the grounds that he was medically unfit for further service; that his disability was caused by his service in the Army; and if he will state why he has not been granted a disability pension.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Claim for Disability Pension.
Reservist William Whyte (whose number is 70429) reported for permanent service with the Forces on the 6th September, 1939, but having been found medically unfit for Army service he was re-transferred to the Reserve on the 8th idem. His service during the emergency period amounted, therefore, to two days. His application for a disability pension was refused on the grounds that the disability from which he suffered was not attributable to his service during the emergency period.
Reservist Whyte had previous service in the Forces from the 5th November, 1929, to the 5th November, 1931, when he was transferred to the Reserve. He was discharged from the Reserve on the 29th July, 1940. There is no provision in the Army Pensions Acts for the grant of a disability pension in respect of disease incurred during Reservist Whyte's period of preemergency Army service, or in respect of his period of Reserve service.
May I ask the Minister if that is the way he intends to treat all the soldiers when they get sick during their service? Are they going to be put on the scrap heap? It is no wonder that we cannot get men to join up.