HC Deb 17 November 1971 vol 826 cc153-4W
66. Mr. Marten

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on what basis, by what criteria and on what authority compensation is assessed and paid to diplomats who have been kidnapped and released from captivity; and how such sums are treated for taxation.

Mr. Godber

There are no formal rules for the assessment of compensation for Diplomatic Service officers who have been kidnapped. Such cases are fortunately rare and the circumstances exceptional and each case has been judged on its merits. Awards are made on the authority of Ministers. Tax matters are for my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer.