§ Mr. ANDERSONasked the Undersecretary of State for War whether he 1626W can explain how an unexploded bomb came to be lying on the Northampton cricket ground on the evening of 17th May; whether he is aware that several boys attempted to pick it up, with the result that an explosion occurred, and that two boys were injured in the face, neck, shoulders, and arms, so that they have been attending hospital ever since; and whether it is proposed to pay compensation to the boys in respect of the injuries received and their compulsory absence from employment?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe facts appear to be that the explosion took place in consequence of the boys trespassing, and breaking into a bombing store. I understand that more than one raid has been made on this store by boys and others. The: injuries received by the boys appear to have been due to their own foolhardiness. Under these circumstances I am afraid I cannot hold out any hope of compensation.