HC Deb 21 November 1951 vol 494 cc373-4
39. Mr. G. Thomas

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air the reason for the delay in paying 1298452 L.A.C. P. D. Bennett, No. 11 School of R.T.G.C.T., Royal Air Force, Hednesford, Staffordshire, his pay and ration allowance money; whether he is aware of the hardship this delay has caused; and what steps he is taking to remedy this.

Mr. Birch

Owing to an unfortunate series of administrative errors, L.A.C. Bennett was not given the usual advance of 14 days' pay and ration allowance before he went on terminal leave, nor was the money due sent to him by post when it should have been. L.A.C. Bennett should by now have received a money order for £20 and, in accordance with the usual practice., he will be sent the balance owing to him on 26th November, the last day of his service in the Royal Air Force. I am grateful to the hon. Member for bringing this case to my notice, and I very much regret any hardship which was caused to the airman concerned.

Mr. Thomas

While I thank the Minister very much for that reply and ask him whether he is aware that my constituent has received this money, may I ask him if he will now take steps to prevent such a thing happening again?

Mr. Birch

It was due to one of those unfortunate series of incidents which occur from time to time. I have looked into the matter myself, and I do not think it will occur again.