§ 60. Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURYasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the present condition of the benefit branch of the Royal Irish Constabulary Force Fund; how much is paid into this fund yearly; how many subscribers are there still; and whether there is any reason why this fund should not be wound up?
Mr. HENDERSONI have been asked to reply to this question. The latest statement of account is for the financial year, 1922–23. I am sending the hon. and gallant Member a copy of this statement. The number of subscribers at present is 3,700, and their yearly subscriptions amount to about £3,200. The question of winding-up the fund has been carefully considered, but any scheme for the immediate distribution of the assets would be contrary to the interests of the widows and orphans for whose benefit the fund is intended. I will send the hon. and gallant Member a copy of the Report made by the Government actuary last year on this question.