HC Deb 01 June 1916 vol 82 cc2938-9W
Mr. MORRELL

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will have inquiries made into the case of Richard Hirst, formerly a private, No. 13768, in the 10th East Lancashire Regiment, who enlisted at Burnley on 9th September, 1914, and was discharged from the Army on 24th April, 1916, and in particular if he will ascertain whether this man, who at the time of his enlistment was a bright, intelligent lad of good character, was brought back to his home under escort at midnight on 24th April in a state of insanity; whether his father was obliged to stay away from work for over a week in order to keep him under control; whether on 5th May he was admitted to the imbecile ward of the Burnley Workhouse; whether, on 16th May, he was taken from there to the Lancaster Asylum, where he still is; whether a payment of 30s. was made to the parents at the time of the lad's discharge, being 5s. himself and 25s. to his parents; whether any statement was ever made as to the lad's mental condition or how it was caused; whether the application made by the parents for an adequate grant or pension has been refused; and whether, in view of all the circumstances of this case, he will allow the matter to be reconsidered?

Mr. TENNANT

I will have inquiry made into this matter.

Mr. RENDALL

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he is yet able to give a reply in relation to Bandsman W. Harvey, No. 1,417, 4th battalion Gloucester Regiment?

Mr. FORSTER

A pension of 25s. a week for six months (conditional) was authorised on the 17th May, and the balance of pay due was paid on the 19th May.