HC Deb 18 November 1942 vol 385 cc325-6
16. Mr. Thorne

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can give any information in connection with the crashing of an aeroplane at Cliffe, Kent, on Saturday, 24th October; how many people were injured; what property was damaged; and what was' the cause of the accident?

Sir A. Sinclair

This accident occurred when a Royal Air Force aircraft crashed on returning from an operational flight. The causes of the accident are being investigated by a court of inquiry. The crew of seven and one civilian were killed and two civilians were injured. Four cottages and a farmhouse were destroyed. I am sure that the House would wish to join with me in expressing sympathy with the relatives of those who lost their lives and with those injured as a result of this regrettable accident.

Mr. Thorne

Will the relatives of the people who were killed, or the injured, get compensation?

Sir A. Sinclair

That will certainly be considered in accordance, with the usual practice.

Mr. Thorne

Do I understand that to mean that it will be a decision, after the inquiry, as to whether compensation will be paid to the parents of those killed, and to the injured?

Sir A. Sinclair

Any question about personal injury to civilians should be addressed to the Minister of Pensions. If my hon. Friend is thinking of damage to land and buildings, then the Chancellor of the Exchequer is responsible.

Mr. Thorne

No, I am thinking about the people who are injured.

Sir A. Sinclair

In that case I am saying it is a case for the Minister of Pensions.

Sir Herbert Williams

Surely if a vehicle belonging to the Crown injures a civilian that civilian has the same rights against the Crown as he would have against an ordinary civilian who caused such an accident?

Sir A. Sinclair

If the hon. Member wishes to pursue this and wishes to know which Minister in the Government is responsible for dealing with the question of compensation to civilians, that member of the Government is the Minister of Pensions.