Sir A. WILLAMSONasked the Postmaster-General if his attention has been called to the case of Mrs. Robertson, of 18, Forteath Street, Elgin, whose husband, a sorting clerk and telegraphist employed in civil life in the general post office, Elgin, was attached on 5th August, 1916, to His Majesty's ship "Cyclops" for special telegraph duties and continued to be so employed until 14th November, 1918; if he is aware that Robertson was in perfect health when he commenced duty on His Majesty's ship "Cyclops"; that owing to the arduous nature of his work his health broke down and that he died on 21st November, 1918; whether, in these circumstances, his widow is entitled to a pension; and whether Robertson is considered to have died in the service of the Post Office or of the Admiralty?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHI am aware of the circumstances of the case. Mr. Robertson died in the service of the Post Office, and a death gratuity under the Superannuation Act of 1909 of £158 12s. 6d. was awarded to his legal personal representatives. Payment of this amount was made in May last to his executor. The Superannuation Acts make no provision for the payment of a pension to the widow of a deceased Civil servant.