HC Deb 20 April 1950 vol 474 cc292-3
4. Mr. Mott-Radclyffe

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what steps have been taken to obtain from the Government of Pakistan payment from the compensation and provident funds due to Mr. S. A. Hamilton of 175, Clarence Road, Windsor, a former employee of the North-West Railway of India, whose contract was terminated three years ago, full details of which have been communicated to his Department

Mr. Gordon-Walker

As a result of our representations to the authorities in India and Pakistan, the Pakistan Government have accepted liability for payment of all Mr. Hamilton's outstanding dues. I understood in March that instructions had been given for immediate payment. The reasons for the delay are not known, and I have continued to press for an early settlement. I have just been informed that the money is being paid to Mr. Hamilton's bankers in Rawalpindi.

Mr. Mott-Radclyffe

Could the right hon. Gentleman explain why there has been this continued delay in paying the sum due, in spite of the fact that the Pakistan Government admitted liability? Is he aware that the delay has caused Mr. Hamilton great inconvenience?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

I cannot explain the delay, nor is it a matter for His Majesty's Government. If it is a matter for anybody it is a question to be addressed to the Government of Pakistan; but the money is now being paid in this case.