§ 46. Mr. HOGGEasked the Prime Minister whether any compensation is being paid to the dependants of those who lost their lives in the East End explosion; and, if so, whether the Government now proposes to pay compensation also to the dependants of those who have lost their lives in Zeppelin raids?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWCompensation is being paid ex gratia by the Ministry of Munitions in the former case. The question whether compensation shall be paid from public funds to civilians suffering from the direct result of enemy action has been repeatedly considered, and as at present advised I am not prepared to depart from the decision reached that compensation shall not be given.
§ Mr. HOGGECan the right hon. Gentleman tell the House why the dependants of men who are killed in Zeppelin raids, and who are left without any means of support, should not be assisted by the State?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWMy hon. Friend must be aware that there are very many considerations which cannot be given in answer to a question.
§ Mr. BILLINGIs it not the fact that these men would not have been killed if we had a proper air policy?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat does not arise out of this question.