HC Deb 08 July 1953 vol 517 cc1238-9
42. Mr. Driberg

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will now make a statement on the payment of compensation to officers and ratings on Coronation day duty whose uniform and equipment were damaged by rain.

Commander Noble

Assessment of compensation involves consultation with a number of naval authorities and I am not able to add any details to the reply which my right hon. Friend made to the hon. Member on 1st July.

Mr. Driberg

As it is more than a month since the Coronation, could the hon. and gallant Gentleman say how much longer this process is likely to take? Will he give an assurance that, as a result of it, no man who took part in this parade will be worse off financially for doing so?

Commander Noble

I think the hon. Gentleman will realise that what we are trying to do is to find the best method of dealing with this problem which involves a large number of men. I can assure him that we are determined that no officer or man shall suffer hardship.

Miss Ward

Could I ask my hon. and gallant Friend whether the same arrangements are being made for the Army and the Air Force?

Commander Noble

I do not think that is a question for me.

Miss Ward

Would he convey that question to his colleagues?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Lady had better put that question down.

Forward to