§ 34. Mr. Dayasked the Home Secretary what has been the amount advanced to the Royal Irish Constabulary Force Fund in any way by the Government and what will be the approximate amount due to be returned to the Government after its liabilities have been discharged; and whether any decision has been made as to the manner in which the balance of the assets will be dealt with?
§ Sir S. HoareIn the year 1891, Parliament voted £150,000 to enable the fund to meet its obligations to the widows and orphans of subscribers on the understanding that any surplus remaining when the final grant had been paid would revert to the Exchequer, and that no extension of existing benefits would be permitted. There are about 1,000 surviving subscribers and the present value of the assets is estimated at £260,000. It is impossible to say what will be the balance ultimately left. The amount of grant payable on the death of a subscriber depends on whether he leaves a widow or unmarried daughters.
§ Mr. DayHas the Home Secretary any idea as to when this fund will be wound up; and is any interest being paid on it?
§ Sir S. HoarePerhaps the hon. Member will put down the second part of the question. As to the first part, I have no information.