13. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the amount of the unclaimed credit balances awaiting distribution; and, with a view to assist in tracing the next-of-kin, can he see his way to have lists with all available particulars supplied to local pension committees, and displayed at all public libraries and similar places?
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONThe amount of the unclaimed balances awaiting distribution cannot be given with any accuracy, as the amount is constantly changing as claims are disposed of. The average 231 amount handed over to the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation for the benefit of relatives of deceased soldiers, or invested by the Department preparatory to handing over, on account of the unclaimed balances during the past six years was £4,360. Of course, the claims of a deceased soldier's heirs hold good and are recognised by the War Office, even though the actual money due may have been invested or handed over, I will consider whether it is possible to extend the various means of publicity already used, which include publication of lists in the "London Gazette," the Army List, and the Press.
Mr. THOMSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the people who are likely to be beneficiaries do not see the "London Gazette," and can he take other means of bringing the facts to people of humble circumstances?
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONI have already stated that I will consider whether it is possible to extend the publication of the lists.