asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what powers exist under his regulations to provide compensation to civilian persons injured or killed when assisting the police in the discharge of their duties; and in whom they are vested;(2) if he is satisfied that adequate powers are held by magistrates and other persons to award compensation to persons injured when assisting the police; and what consultations his Department has had with such magistrates and other persons regarding their powers in this regard.

At present the criminal courts have only limited powers to award compensation for injury caused by a wrongdoer. It is, however, the practice of police authorities, with my approval, to make ex gratia payments to persons who suffer injury or loss while assisting the police. As regards the general question of compensation for the victims of crimes of violence, I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to Questions by the hon. Members for Lewisham, South (Mr. C. Johnson) and East Ham, North (Mr. Prentice) on 9th November.