HC Deb 17 June 1991 vol 193 cc77-8W
Mr. Winnick

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will consult his Canadian counterpart about the circumstances which led to the injuries suffered in July 1989 by Guardsmen Sean Povey, Adrian Hicks and John Ray.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

There is continuing contact with the Canadian authorities. If any additional information on the case is required it can be obtained through normal channels.

Mr. Winnick

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many letters to date have been received by his Department from the solicitors acting for Guardsmen Sean Povey, Adrian Hicks and John Ray.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

To date my Department has received nine letters from the solicitors previously acting on behalf of the guardsmen and two from their current solicitors.

Mr. Winnick

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence under what circumstances his Department would be willing to reconsider the decision not to pay any compensation to Guardsmen Sean Povey, Adrian Hicks and John Ray.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

The decision will be reconsidered if it can be shown that the Ministry of Defence is legally liable.

Mr. Hicks is in receipt of tax-free, index-linked pensions and other benefits amounting to £8,984 per annum. Guardsmen Povey and Ray will also be eligible for pensions and benefits if they are discharged from the Army on medical grounds.

Mr. Winnick

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if would be willing to meet Guardsmen Sean Povey, Adrian Hicks and John Ray, together with their hon. Members of Parliament.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

The Secretary of State for Defence has no plans to do so.