HC Deb 07 July 1943 vol 390 cc2080-1
33. Mr. Loverseed

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether effective machinery exists for the return of the effects of a deceased seaman to his next-of-kin; and whether it is the normal practice to require the next-of-kin to pay postage for the return of such effects?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir, there is machinery for returning the effects of a deceased seaman to his next-of-kin, and I think it works smoothly and well. Effects are now delivered free of charge.

Mr. Loverseed

Would the hon. Gentleman investigate the case of the widow of a merchant seaman, herself serving in the W.A.A.F., who applied for the effects of her late husband to be returned to her but was told by the superintendent of the Mercantile Marine office in Liverpool, in a letter which I have here, that if she would kindly fill up form WDC and send a postal order for 3s. 6d., her husband's effects would be returned?

Mr. Noel-Baker

That letter must have been dated some time ago, since when a new arrangement has been in force.

Mr. Loverseed

It is dated May, 1943.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Yes, Sir; and it is since then that the new arrangement has been in force.

Mr. Molson

When was the new arrangement introduced?

Mr. Noel-Baker

It was introduced-some weeks ago, not more than a month.

Mr. George Griffiths

Will this woman get her 3s. 6d. back?