HC Deb 09 May 1950 vol 475 cc38-9W
103. Sir I. Fraser

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will give particulars of the scheme to enable relatives to visit war graves from the present time until 31st March, 1951.

Mr. Strachey

This scheme is the same as that previously in operation save for the fact that the total assistance provided to relatives from public funds will be on a more limited scale. The voluntary bodies involved will shortly be informed of the maximum contributions which will be made from public funds during the current financial year. I will circulate details of the scheme in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following are the details:

Arrangements for visits to war graves in France, Belgium, Holland, Germany and Italy including Sicily, are made by the following voluntary bodies:

The British Legion, 49, Pall Mall, London, S.W.1.

The Church Army, 55 Bryanston Street, London, W.1.

The Church of Scotland Committee on Hut and Canteen Work for His Majesty's Forces, 121 George Street, Edinburgh.

The Salvation Army, War Graves Visitation Department, William Booth Memorial College, Denmark Hill, London, S.E.5.

The Y.M.C.A., 112 Great Russell Street, London, W.C.1.; 10 Palmerston Place, Edinburgh; 22 Howard Street, Belfast; 53 Park Place, Cardiff.

In genuine cases of need, these organisations make grants towards the expenses of a single visit by two relatives. Subject to the maximum amount to be provided from public funds not being exceeded, the organisations are reimbursed to the extent of seven-eighths of their direct expenditure.

Application should be addressed to one or other of these five voluntary bodies, stating clearly the names and addresses of the relatives and full particulars of the grave and cemetery which they wish to visit. A choice of dates should also be given.