HC Deb 09 July 1953 vol 517 cc1473-4
32. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will announce the result of his consultations with local authority associations about additional disablement benefits for members of the Civil Defence Service and the Auxiliary Fire Service.

Sir H. Lucas-Tooth

As my right hon. and learned Friend said in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend, the Member for Heston and Isleworth (Mr. R. Harris) on 25th June, he will make a statement as soon as he has received and considered the comments of the local authority associations on the proposed scheme.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Is there not a clear case for some additional compensation where, as in the case of a fireman now in a mental home, to which I have drawn the attention of the hon. Gentleman on more than one occasion, it would be desirable both on the grounds of humanity as well as recruiting for this essential service that additional compensation should be forthcoming?

Sir H. Lucas-Tooth

As my right hon. and learned Friend said on 25th June, a scheme has been prepared. It went to the local authority associations on 17th June and we are now awaiting their reply.