§ Mr. BYRNEasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he is aware that the present scale of compensation for dependants of seamen lost at sea was drafted in 1915; if he is aware that since then wages and bonuses of all classes have increased to meet the increased cost of living, which is estimated to be 50 per cent.; and if he will see that the scale of compensation to dependants of seamen is increased by a similar amount and that seamen's lives are insured for £1,000?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe members of the mercantile marine engaged for and paid by the Admiralty are eligible for the same benefits as the rest of the mercantile marine. The hon. Member is wrong in saying that the scheme of compensation remains the same as when originally promulgated in 1915. Since then the minimum pension to widows and allowances to children have been increased as follows:
Widow's pension:
£26 a year to £35 16s. 11d. a year.
Allowances for children:
£6 10s. a year up to 4, i.e., £26 as a maximum to
1941W
£13 0 8 a year, 1st child. £10 17 3 a year 2nd child £8 13 9 a year 3rd child £6 10 5 a year 4th and each succeeding child.