§ 19. Sir RICHARD COOPERasked the Secretary of State for War whether a Mr. Barefoot, employed for many years in the Woolwich Arsenal, who died lately, was at the time of his death entitled to a bonus of £80; whether this sum or any part of it had been paid over to his widow; and, if not, will he state why?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Baker)I cannot identify the individual case which the hon. Member has in mind, but under the provisions of the Superannuation Act, 1887, gratuities can only be granted to men discharged under certain specified conditions and cannot be given to the widow of a man who dies while still employed.
§ Mr. WORTHINGTON EVANSCan the hon. Gentleman say whether any steps are going to be taken to alter the Superannuation Act as suggested a year ago?
§ Mr. BAKERThat question ought not to be addressed to me, but the War Office has expressed its opinion upon it.