HC Deb 14 December 1944 vol 406 cc1328-9
25. Mr. Ivor Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, in view of the fact that the late Police Constable Plant, of the Keighley force, met his death as the result of an unduly severe drill which he was required to undergo, he will grant a special pension to his widow.

Mr. H. Morrison

Under the provisions of the Police Pensions Act, 1921, the question whether a special pension could be granted to the widow of this late member of the West Riding Constabulary is a matter for the police authority of that force, and I have no authority to give any directions to the police authority in the matter.

Mr. Thomas

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the police authority would certainly grant a pension if it were not for an interpretation of the Statute which appears to be made by the Home Office?

Mr. Morrison

The Home Office has no power to interpret Statutes. The lady concerned has a statutory right of appeal to quarter sessions against the decision of the police authority, but she has not exercised that right.

Mr. Thomas

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the lady is in very reduced circumstances, having also lost a son in the war, and that she is in no position to take the matter to court?

Mr. Morrison

I am very sorry, but I have personally no power in the matter whatever.

Mr. Thomas

I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.