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Lost Air Liner (Dependants, Compensation)

Volume 390: debated on Wednesday 23 June 1943

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10.

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he accepts responsibility for the payment of compensation to the dependants of those killed by enemy attack on an air liner flying between Lisbon and Great Britain on 1st-2nd June?

K.L.M. operate the air service between the United Kingdom and Lisbon under contract to the British Overseas Airways Corporation, and the arrangements provide that the latter will be responsible for the payment of compensation to dependants of the crews who lose their lives in the course of duty. As the passengers lost their lives as a result of enemy action, the entitlement of dependants of passengers to compensation is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Pensions to determine under the Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme. I am informed that persons ordinarily resident in the United Kingdom are covered by that Scheme for war injuries sustained while they are outside the United Kingdom for business purposes.

What rate of pension will be paid to the dependants of the crew?

That is a matter depending upon the terms of the contract between British Overseas Airways and the K.L.M. Company.