§ Mr. LUMLEYasked the Secretary of State for War if his attention has been drawn to the death of Private William Charles Johnson, 13/18th Hussars, who was killed at Waterloo Station on 30th March; is he aware that it is stated that the train left two minutes before time, and that a carriage door was open; will he make inquiries to ascertain if the railway company was responsible; and, if so, will he claim compensation for the mother from the company?
§ Mr. WALSHMy attention has been called to this case, and I deeply regret Private Johnson's death, but, as my hon. Friend is aware, he was not on duty at the time. The verdict at the inquest was one of accidental death, and the accident, so far as my information goes, was due to Private Johnson having delayed to speak to a friend until the train was moving. Under the circumstances, and on the information at present before the Department, I regret that no action is open to me.