HC Deb 29 July 1943 vol 391 cc1788-9
96. Mr. David Adams

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether arrangements have now been, or will be, made for the settlement of compensation claims of injured workmen in Government service in Sierra Leone, by the local branch of the Overseas Department instead of by the respective Government Departments in this country, whereby delays and hardship to injured applicants or their dependants ensue?

The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Air (Captain Harold Balfour)

Settlement is already made locally in cases of temporary disablement of locally entered Royal Air Force employees. Awards in respect of permanent disablement or death must be referred to this country, but in order to avoid hardship to injured work-people or their dependants the Air Officer Commanding, Air Headquarters, West Africa, is being authorised to make advances locally in appropriate cases.

Mr. Adams

While I thank the Minister for this advance which has been made, may I point out that there are numerous cases of small accidents which have been referred to this country, and can that matter be inquired into?

Captain Balfour

I have said in my reply that temporary incapacity can be settled locally. It is the larger interests, for which interim payments will be made, which are referred to this country for final settlement.