HC Deb 12 October 1943 vol 392 cc690-1
16. Captain Crowder

asked the Secretary of State for War whether civilian employees of the War Office on auxiliary vessels operated by the War Department are entitled to a pension if they lose their lives in the course of their duties performed under orders from the War Office?

Sir J. Griģģ

A civilian employee of the War Department and his dependants are not entitled to a pension as if he were a member of the Armed Forces. In the case about which my hon. and gallant Friend has written to me an award has been made to the widow and children of the deceased seaman under the Government scheme framed under the Workmen's Compensation Acts and instructions for payment have already been issued.

Captain Crowder

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the widow has been offered only £300 and £263 for her two children, aged nine and six? Can he go into the matter again and see whether it is possible for her to have a pension?

Sir. J. Griģģ

I have been into the matter. The award is the full award payable under the Workmen's Compensation Act and is in accordance with the treatment of civilian employees of all three Service Departments.

Captain Crowder

But is not £600,the maximum? These amounts total only £563;