HC Deb 17 May 1915 vol 71 cc1967-8
15. Mr. FLAVIN

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware that Thomas Mahoney, official number 200,703, was a leading seaman on H.M.S. "Monmouth," which was sunk on 1st November, 1914, in which Thomas Mahoney lost his life; whether he is aware that Mahoney's father has been dead for the past seven years, that Mahoney's mother is over seventy years of age, and that her only support in the past was the allowance made to her by her son, supplemented by moneys he saved in the Navy which he regularly sent his mother; whether, owing to the fact that Mahoney had seventeen years' service, with an excellent character, and being the sole support of his mother, he will reconsider the application of Mahoney's mother for a substantial increase of the money granted to her, namely, £39 10s., in discharge of all her claims; and whether he can state what reserve or other money was due to Thomas Mahoney up to the date of the sinking of the "Monmouth"?

Dr. MACNAMARA

The gratuity of £39 10s. paid in January represents all that Mrs. Mahoney is eligible for from Admiralty Funds under the present Regulations, but her case is noted for consideration when the Statutory body recommended by the Select Committee has been established. The balance of wages due to Mahoney at the date of his death was £10 4s. 4d., and steps are being taken to pay this amount, together with a sum of £8 0s. 2d. awarded on account of compensation for loss of effects, to his legal representative.

Mr. FLAVIN

Will the Admiralty consider the advisability of increasing the gratuity or giving her a small pension?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I can give no undertaking, but the case can be represented to the Standing Committee.

Lord C. BERESFORD

As this is a particularly hard case would the Admiralty take it into consideration and give this woman either an extra gratuity or an extra pension? They can do it.

Dr. MACNAMARA

I will not put my knowledge against the Noble Lord's, but we have done all we can in this case, and any further consideration would be a question for this body to which I have referred.

Lord C. BERESFORD

Can we apply to the body and get consideration there?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I myself will undertake to submit the case to that body.