HC Deb 29 June 1943 vol 390 c1448
20. Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will undertake in future to permit the widow of an officer who loses his life on active service to draw the full amount of her husband's pay for the month in which he died?

Mr. Henderson

My hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion has been carefully considered, but I regret that it is not considered desirable to adopt it. He will appreciate that two-sevenths of an officer's pay and family lodging allowance in full continue in issue to the wife for 91 days from the date of his death.

Sir A. Knox

Does the widow of an officer receive his pay for 91 days after his death?

Mr. Henderson

Two-sevenths of his pay, plus family allowances.

Mr. Bellenger

But is not that two-sevenths the contribution from the officer himself? Will not the Government supplement that?

Mr. Henderson

No, Sir.

Sir A. Knox

Is not the State supposed to be a model employer, and is it not better to do away with this pettifogging means test?

Mr. Henderson

My hon. and gallant friend must realise that it possibly would not work out as he imagines. One officer may get a whole month's pay and another officer only one day's pay.