HC Deb 21 October 1952 vol 505 cc853-4
34. Mr. Glanville

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if, owing to the peculiar circumstances of the case, he will authorise the payment of post-war credits of the late Miss Peggy Dowson, particulars of which have been supplied to him, to the widowed mother of Miss Dowson who is responsible for the care and maintenance of her late daughter's child.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Though I feel great sympathy with the people concerned, payment of post-war credit is not by law due in this case, and I have no power to authorise payment.

Mr. Glanville

While thanking the Minister for his sympathy, may I ask him if, in view of the special circumstances attaching to this case, which I have outlined in a letter to him, he can agree to pay the credits to the mother of the girl who died?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

As I have already explained to the hon. Member, though I fully share his sympathy with the circumstances of this distressing case, I have no authority whatsoever to authorise a payment not authorised by law.

Mr. Glanville

But could not the Minister seek authority?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

That is another question.