§ COLONEL LOCK WOOD (Essex, Epping)To ask the Secretary of State for War if he can give particulars of the recent explosion at Waltham Abbey whereby three lives were lost; and what compensation is due to the relatives of the deceased.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Brodrick.) A violent explosion occurred at 12.3 p.m., 15th December, in an incorporating machine which, so far as can be at present ascertained, was being charged with cordite modified paste. The man charging it was blown to pieces, and two other men were killed by falling débris, one just outside the incorporating bay and another in the engine room. The damage done is extensive, and immediate action is being taken to make this good. The question of compensation will be considered. It is impossible to state at present what will be granted.