§ 15. Mr. NEWBOULDasked the Secretary of State for War why the war gratuity due in respect of a deceased soldier who has left a widow and child should not be paid over to the widow for the benefit of the child; and why it should be deposited in the orphans' savings bank at 2 per cent. interest when, if invested in the War Loan, it would earn double that amount?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe estate, including war gratuity of a deceased soldier, who has died intestate leaving a, widow and child, is distributed under the law of intestacy, and the child's share is paid to the widow for the benefit of the child unless the amount is large enough to be worth investing. If in any case it is desired that such investment should not be made in the orphan's savings bank the War Office is prepared to consider any recommendations made by a minister-magistrate, or other person of like responsible position, who knows the case and will undertake to see that this investment is made in War Loan or similar securities.