HC Deb 23 May 1940 vol 361 c300
30. Mr. Messer

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, on the night of 22nd September last, Mr. F. Chambers, a quasi-permanent officer at Feltham Borstal Institution, was brutally attacked by a prisoner and suffered injuries, with the result that he has had to undergo a long period of sick absence; that, as a consequence of the injuries sustained, this officer has lost pay amounting to approximately £45 up to date; and whether he is prepared to authorise an ex-gratiapayment to the officer so as to ensure that he does not suffer this financial loss solely as a result of an injury sustained in the performance of his duty?

Sir J. Anderson

In the early hours of 23rd September, 1939, this officer, who is a re-engaged pensioner serving in a temporary capacity, was attacked by an inmate at Feltham, as a result of which he sustained certain injuries to his head. These were not of a serious character and Mr. Chambers made a good recovery; but as he was found to be suffering from high blood pressure he was unable to resume duty, and his case was dealt with under the Workmen's Compensation Acts. I regret that it is not possible to make an ex-gratia payment in addition to the compensation which is being paid to Mr. Chambers under those Acts.