HC Deb 16 April 1913 vol 51 cc1913-4
13. Lord C. BERESFORD

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman can now give the House any further information as to the missing cutter belonging to His Majesty's ship "Perseus" in the Persian Gulf; whether he will state the number of relatives dependent on the men lost; whether any pensions have been awarded; if so, to whom were they awarded; and when they were awarded?

Mr. LAMBERT

No definite information accounting for the disappearance of the cutter has yet come to light, but inquiries are being prosecuted with a view to the thorough investigation of the rumours re- ferred to by the Noble Lord in his previous question on this subject. Of the eight men lost four are known to have left dependant relatives, to whom gratuities have been awarded. Pensions are only awarded to the widows of men killed or drowned on duty.

Lord C. BERESFORD

What were the conclusions of the inquiry?

Mr. LAMBERT

Two mothers were awarded gratuities of £22 16s. 3d. and £33 9s. 2d. respectively; one aunt £30 8s. 4d., and one father £34 19s. 7d.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Were there any children?

Mr. LAMBERT

No. There were no children.