HC Deb 04 April 1940 vol 359 cc306-7
70. Mr. Leslie

asked the Minister of Pensions whether, in the event of a widow being killed whilst doing duty as a civilian defence volunteer, her children will be granted any compensation?

The Minister of Pensions (Sir Walter Womersley)

In such a case a pension would be payable to any dependent child under the terms of the Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme.

71. Mr. Leslie

asked the Minister of Pensions whether, in the event of a wife being killed whilst doing duty as a civilian defence volunteer, the husband, who has an Army disability pension in respect of his wife which automatically ceases on her death, will be given compensation?

Sir W. Womersley

The additional allowance granted to a disablement pensioner in respect of his wife is intended to assist him in maintaining her during her lifetime, and there is no provision for compensation on account of its discontinuance owing to her death from any cause.

Mr. Leslie

In a case like this, where the wife was doing national service and her death means a monetary loss to her husband, will no compensation be paid?

Sir W. Womersley

There is no provision for it in the existing legislation.

Mr. Sorensen

Has the hon. Member considered those few cases in which, owing to disability or for some other reason, the husband has been financially dependent upon his wife? In those cases cannot there be some compensation?

Sir W. Womersley

I have heard of no such cases, but I will consider any that are brought to my notice.

Mr. Sorensen

Will the hon. Gentleman consider them?

Sir W. Womersley

I have told the hon. Member, yes.

72. Mr. Leslie

asked the Minister of Pensions whether in the event of a wife being killed whilst doing duty as a civilian defence volunteer, the husband will be granted compensation?

Sir W. Womersley

Compensation in the case mentioned would not be due under the Personal Injuries Scheme.

Mr. Thorne

Why should not a man be compensated for the loss of his wife as well as the wife being compensated for the loss of her husband?

Sir W. Womersley

The scheme was drawn up on the basis of the loss of the breadwinner.

Mr. Cassells

Is it not possible for the wife to be the breadwinner of the family?

Sir W. Womersley

There is such a possibility, but it is very remote.

Mr. Cassells

But if it is so, will the hon. Gentleman consider it?