HC Deb 21 July 1938 vol 338 cc2402-3
21. Mr. Thurtle

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the fact that the career of ex-Inspector John Syme was brought to an end through circumstances arising out of an adverse report of a superior officer, which was subsequently admitted by his Department to be unfounded, and that the ex-inspector in question, although subsequently granted a pension of £72 per annum and awarded certain arrears of pension, was never paid any compensation in respect of the premature termination of his career as a police officer, he will consider the possibility of making some payment to ex-Inspector Syme by way of compensation for the premature ending of his career?

Sir S. Hoare

This unfortunate case was most carefully considered by my predecessor, the right hon. Member for Platting (Mr. Clynes) in 1931, and, after reviewing the facts, I am satisfied that there are no grounds for reopening the questions on which a decision was then taken. The settlement of the case announced in this House by my predecessor on 21st May, 1931, in a statement of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy, must be regarded as final. This settlement and the terms in which it was announced were accepted by Mr. Syme.

Mr. Thurtle

If the right hon. Gentleman, on further examination, should find that ex-Inspector Syme did not accept that settlement of 1931 as complete and final, and that he has constantly urged his case for compensation in respect of the ending of his career, will he agree to reconsider the matter?

Sir S. Hoare

No, Sir. I am afraid I could not deal with a hypothetical question of that kind. The case has been considered over and over again. I do regard this settlement as final.

Mr. Thurtle

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there was no compensation paid to ex-Inspector Syme in respect of the loss of his career?

Sir S. Hoare

I think the hon. Gentleman had better look at the communication I am sending him. He will then see as far as I can judge, that ex-Inspector Syme did accept compensation in settlement.

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