HC Deb 28 June 1917 vol 95 cc514-5
45. Mr. HOGGE

asked the. Prime Minister whether the Government have considered any scheme for dealing with those who have been disabled as a result of injuries arising out of air raids and the dependants who have been left helpless as a result of the death of the breadwinner; and when a statement of policy may be expected?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have made careful inquiry into this question, and find that in connection with air raids temporary assistance of a generous kind is forthcoming from the National Relief Fund and certain local funds, including the Mansion House Fund in the case of the recent raid on London. By this means it is possible to grant temporary maintenance allowances, to replace essential articles of furniture, to defray funeral expenses, and to secure the provision of medical or surgical treatment or appliances.

The Government has also decided to make ex gratia awards from public funds of a more permanent character in cases where personal injury has resulted in death or permanent disablement, and where the injured person or his dependants, as the case may be, are otherwise un-provided for. Claims for such assistance will be investigated by the local representative committees set up at the beginning of the War under the Government Committee for the Prevention and Relief of Distress. The reports of the committees will be forwarded to the Treasury, who will make the awards according to the circumstances of the various cases, and follow generally the principles of the Workmen's Compensation Acts.

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

Is that decision retrospective? Does it apply to injuries suffered since the begining of the War?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have considered that, and I think it is only right that the terms of my answer should apply to such cases.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Will that also relate to injuries to property? The southeast has suffered heavily.

Mr. BONAR LAW

No. I cannot say anything in regard to property.

Mr. REA

Does this apply only to air raids or will it apply also to bombardments?

Mr. BONAR LAW

This answer applies only to air raids. I believe something special was done in regard to bombardments, apart from what has been done in regard to air raids.