§ Mr. Nicholas WintertonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) what assessment he has made of the financial situation of Royal Ulster Constabulary widows and their families; and if he will make a statement; [143249]
(2) if he will make an equal tax-free lump sum payment to RUC widows' families based on the difference between the gratuities payable before and after November 1982, as measured by the RPI and if the sum had been invested from 1982 to date; [143251]
(3) if it is his policy to means-test the financial provision made to RUC widows' families; [143250]
(4) what measures he will take to ensure the financial security of RUC widows and their families; and if he will make a statement. [143252]
§ Mr. IngramIn July, John Steele CB OBE TD DL was asked to review the Patten Commission proposal for a substantial fund to be set up to help injured police officers and their families, and police widows. He reported at the end of October and a copy of the report is available in the Library.
On 7 November my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland announced that he welcomed Mr. Steele's comprehensive and thorough report, which covers the points made by the hon. Member, and that the Government were undertaking a detailed assessment of each of the specific proposals. That assessment, including the arrangements for setting up a Trust Fund, is continuing.