§ Mr. R. YOUNGasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether George Ridley, a turner, who was employed at Devonport Dockyard, was entitled to a pension when the War broke out; whether he remained at work during the War at the request of the authorities and, while still an employé, died; and whether, under such circumstances, his dependants are entitled to a gratuity?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAFrom the particulars given, the case referred to cannot be definitely identified. If, however, my hon. Friend's inquiry relates to the late Thomas Gardner Ridley, hired founder, who died in July last, I am advised that the deceased man was never entitled to456W a pension; did not attain the age of 60 until August, 1918; and, according to investigations made at the time of his death, left no dependants, his two daughters being, I am assured, self-supporting. Had there been anyone actually dependent on the deceased, a gratuity equal to one week's pay for each year's service might have been granted.