asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will state the number of appeals in respect of claims for blind pensions lodged by either claimants or pension officers during the year March 31st, 1935, to March 31st, 1936; how many of these appeals are still undecided and when it is proposed to have them determined.

During the year ended 31st March, 1936, the number of appeals received in respect of claims for blind pensions was 1,670. The number of such appeals at present awaiting decision is 772.

There has been some delay in determining appeals due to the fact that the post of medical inspector for blind pension purposes became vacant on 1st February last. Steps for filling the post are well advanced and it is hoped to be in a position to make an appointment shortly. The appeals will be determined as expeditiously as possible.

Arising out of the reply, could the Parliamentary Secretary give any information as to what the nature of the delay was in filling such an appointment? Was it not possible for the Local Appointments Commission or the Civil Service Commission to insert an advertisement and to adjudicate as between the applications for the position?

I do not think the delay has been abnormal. The appointment is filled in the ordinary way by the Civil Service Commissioners after a selection board, and it will take some time.

Can the Parliamentary Secretary forecast approximately when a medical inspector will be appointed?

I think in the very near future.