Widows' Pensions

Oral Answers to Questions — Police – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 23 April 1953.

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Miss Ward:

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will now make a statement on the pensions it is proposed to pay to widows of men in police service who are killed on duty.

Photo of Mr David Maxwell Fyfe Mr David Maxwell Fyfe , Liverpool, West Derby

This matter was discussed last month at the Police Council for England and Wales, and the Scottish Police Council, and it is to be considered again by the Police Councils in May. I am sorry that I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

Miss Ward:

Has my right hon. and learned Friend now won the battle with the Treasury? I am at a loss to know what is before the Police Council.

Photo of Mr David Maxwell Fyfe Mr David Maxwell Fyfe , Liverpool, West Derby

The Police Council includes representatives of police authorities and all branches of the police. Last month this suggestion was discussed by them, and it will be discussed again in May. That is why I cannot make a statement today.

Miss Ward:

I do not think my right hon. and learned Friend quite heard my supplementary. I asked whether he had won his battle with the Treasury, and I wish to know whether he has been able to put this point to the Police Council for their consideration.

Photo of Mr David Maxwell Fyfe Mr David Maxwell Fyfe , Liverpool, West Derby

I would prefer that decisions on matters which are discussed before the Police Council and which have to be discussed again should be announced to the House only after the final discussion has taken place. I ask my hon. Friend not to press me upon this point, as I hope to be able to make a statement after the next meeting.

Mr. Glenvil Hall:

If an increase is granted—and I am sure the whole House hopes that it will be—can it be dated back, as this matter has been under consideration for a long time and many of these widows are in straitened circumstances?

Photo of Mr David Maxwell Fyfe Mr David Maxwell Fyfe , Liverpool, West Derby

I will certainly look into that point.