HC Deb 14 April 1920 vol 127 cc1691-2W
Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether, he will expedite the inquiry into the claim for compensation by the widow of the late Warder Thomas Harper, Parkhurst Prison, who died in the National Hospital, Queen's Square, on 29th June, 1919, from injury to the brain resulting from a fall, in a struggle with a refractory convict, whilst in the execution of his duty; whether the case is being considered from the point of view of the terms of The Workmen's Compensation Act, 1906; and whether, in view of the necessitous circumstances of Mrs. Harper, whose income from all sources for herself and four children does not exceed 30s. a week, he can recommend a grant from any funds at his disposal to relieve the situation temporarily pending the result of the inquiry?

Mr. BALDWIN

On the information in my possession it would not appear that this warder's death was attributable to the effects of the accident referred to, which occurred in 1913, and I am unable to authorise any payment to the widow at present. Further inquiries are being made into the history of the illness, and a decision will be arrived at as soon as possible.