HC Deb 11 November 1943 vol 393 cc1277-8
39. Mr. Arthur Duckworth

asked the Minister of Pensions whether any decision has been made with regard to the appropriate compensation to be paid to two airmen discharged on account of serious injuries and to the dependants of eight airmen who were killed as a result of a motor-omnibus accident at Knottingley, Yorkshire, on 6th February, 1943?

The Minister of Pensions (Sir Walter Womersley)

Entitlement under the Pensions Order has been admitted in respect of this accident. Two of the three airmen who were injured in the accident have been admitted to pension, and in the case of the third, a medical examination has been arranged. Of the eight airmen who were unfortunately killed, only one left a widow, and she has been pensioned; the dependants of the other seven are regarded as having established their title to pension if they should become in need, and one such pension has been authorised. No award can at present be made in four of the cases as the dependants are not in pecuniary need and in the remaining two there has been no application.

Mr. Gallacher

Is it not time the position was changed where a statement is sent to a mother that she has established her claim and that if she becomes poverty- stricken later on they will consider giving her something?

Sir W. Womersley

There is no question of becoming poverty-stricken at all.

Mr. Gallacher

"Pecuniary need." What does that mean?

Sir W. Womersley

Not poverty-stricken.

Mr. Gallacher

Of course it does.