§ 79. Sir B. Neven-Spenceasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that on 17th June, 1945, at about 0045 hours, AM(E) FX 685056 John D. Dicker, whilst driving Bedford R.N. 11674 from the R.N. Air Station, Hatston, Orkney, crashed into the entrance gate of the house of Mr. Peter Stockan, Redlandhill, Stromness, and damaged the dairy, the roof of the dwelling-house and a stone dyke; and what compensation he proposes to pay to Mr. Stockan.
§ Mr. Bellenger:I understand that the vehicle concerned was being driven without authority. In accordance with the general policy the Government are unable to accept financial responsibility for this accident as it is considered that at the time of the accident the driver was driving in such circumstances that had he been in private employment his employer would not have been responsible in law for his acts. If the claimant does not agree with this view the question could be referred to an independent Legal Referee appointed by the Lord Advocate provided he intimates that he wishes this to be done within 28 days. On the other hand the claimant may, if, he wishes, submit the case to the Compassionate Payments Committee of the Claims Commission for consideration for an ex-gratia award.