§ 2. Colonel DAYasked the Minister of Pensions the amount of unclaimed money awaiting claimants in respect of men killed during the Great War; and will he consider the advisability of having a list compiled and deposited in every Post Office in order that all publicity may be given in this regard?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Captain Douglas King)I have been asked to reply. As regards the first part of the question, exact figures cannot readily be given, but the amount is estimated at over £100,000. As regards the second part, under the provisions of the Regimental Debts Act every unclaimed balance is published once a year for seven years in the "London Gazette," and for several years after the War the "London 2480 Gazette" lists were exhibited in all the principal post offices, and notices drawing attention to these lists, with instructions how claims should be made, were shown in all post offices. In this way, and by notices in the Press, these estates have been widely advertised, and I do not think the method suggested by the hon. Member would be more effective. The amounts undisposed of after seven years are handed over to the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation for the benefit of relatives of deceased soldiers.
§ Colonel DAYIs it not a fact that, if these lists were given more prominence at the post offices, and notices put on them that the names of the dependants could be inspected, then there might be more claims made for this unclaimed money?
§ Captain KINGIf the hon. and gallant Member will read my answer, he will see that that was done for several years, and they are still published every year in the "Gazette."
§ Colonel DAYAnd will be?
§ Captain KINGThey are being.