43. Miss Wardasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will now make a statement on the pensions it is proposed to pay to widows of men in police service who are killed on duty.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeThis matter was discussed last month at the Police Council for England and Wales, and the Scottish Police Council, and it is to be considered again by the Police Councils in May. I am sorry that I am not yet in a position to make a statement.
Miss WardHas my right hon. and learned Friend now won the battle with the Treasury? I am at a loss to know what is before the Police Council.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeThe Police Council includes representatives of police authorities and all branches of the police. Last month this suggestion was discussed by them, and it will be discussed again in May. That is why I cannot make a statement today.
Miss WardI do not think my right hon. and learned Friend quite heard my supplementary. I asked whether he had won his battle with the Treasury, and I wish to know whether he has been able to put this point to the Police Council for their consideration.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI would prefer that decisions on matters which are discussed before the Police Council and which have to be discussed again should be announced to the House only after the final discussion has taken place. I ask my hon. Friend not to press me upon this point, as I hope to be able to make a statement after the next meeting.
Mr. Glenvil HallIf an increase is granted—and I am sure the whole House hopes that it will be—can it be dated back, as this matter has been under consideration for a long time and many of these widows are in straitened circumstances?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI will certainly look into that point.