§ 71. Mr. Collinsasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that T/22972090 Driver W. Witt was killed in Cyprus on 4th August, 1956, but that his mother's request for information as to the cause of his death has not yet been complied with, although on 7th August the Army authorities demanded immediate payment of £46 for a special casket before they would apply to the Cyprus authorities for repatriation of the body to this country; and what action he is taking.
§ Mr. F. MacleanI regret the delay in giving Mrs. Witt more information about her son's death. For several reasons inquiries in Cyprus were unfortunately held up, but a letter was sent to her on 22nd October. The application to the Cyprus authorities was made as soon as Mrs. Witt's request was received and not held up as the hon. Member suggests. For reasons which have frequently been given in the House, we bring bodies home from abroad only when the next-of-kin bears the expense, including the cost of the special coffin which health regulations prescribe. The position was fully explained to Mrs. Witt before she took her decision.