§ Colonel VAUGHAN-MORGANasked the Under-Secretary of State for India if he is aware that Edward Lawrence Murphy, late captain, Supply and Transport Corps, Indian Army, who was originally demobilised with effect from 22nd September, 1919, has not yet had his pay and gratuity account adjusted; that, though this officer subsequently received a permanent commission in the Indian Army on 14th January, 1920, and served until 8th July, 1922, when he retired under the provisions of the Royal Warrant of 25th April, 1922, he is still unable to obtain final settlement; and that, owing to the delay which has taken place, he has suffered severe loss and his prospects of livelihood have been prejudicially affected in the following circumstances: Having entered into an agreement with the 1820 Memorial Settlers' Association to take up farming in South Africa, on the condition of his being in possession of £1,500, the approximate amount due to him and so acknowledged by the Indian Government by their last pay certificate, Captain Murphy proceeded to South Africa, and in due course made application for payment, through the Secretary for Finance, Pretoria, of the balance due to him, when he was informed that the India Office decline to recognise liability for the total amount already certified as owing, and, consequently, Captain Murphy was obliged to return to England; and whether, in these circumstances, he will cause inquiry to be made?
§ Earl WINTERTONThe case of Captain Murphy has now been brought to my notice. I greatly regret the delay in disposing of it, which I am at a loss to understand. The Government of India are being requested, by telegram to settle it as soon as possible.