asked the Minister of Pensions if he is yet in a position to state whether men called up under the National Service Act who sustain injuries whilst undergoing whole-time or part-time service will be eligible for a disability pension under the existing war pensions instruments; and if there will be any right of appeal to an independent tribunal in the case of disputed claims.

I regret that it is not yet possible to make any announcement on the matters referred to by the hon. and gallant Member.

As the National Service Act is now law, is it not high time that a decision was taken?

Of course, the National Service Act does not, in fact, come into operation until 1949, and the Service Departments have a large number of preoccupations with which to concern themselves. It is not to be expected that this matter should be given first priority in present circumstances.

If I put down a Question immediately after the Summer Recess, will the Minister give me a reply?

I shall be very glad to give an answer immediately the question has been decided.