R.A.F. ALARM

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 143, 18 June 1936, Page 11

R.A.F. ALARM

LACK OF COMPENSATION Surprise is expressed in Air Force circles, both regular and non-regulir, at the Treasury contention that accidents on duty, in which no element of hostile action is involved, are outside the scope of relief from death duties, says the Daily Telegraph aviation correspondent. The Treasury has refused to grant relief from death duties in the case of Viscount Knebworth, heir of the Earl of Lytton. Viscount Knebworth, a pilot in the County of London (Bombing) Squadron, was killed in a Hendon (Trash three years ago while, it was stated, flying under orders. It has been the belief throughout the Service that compensation is paid in the case of death or disablement on flying duty in peace time, and that this applies to relief from death duties. It is regarded as undesirable that a distinction should be drawn between short-term officers and members of the Auxiliary Force from other grades of the Service. I heard the opinion expressed that it is unsatisfactory that in cases cf accident to short-term officers or members of the Auxiliary Air Force the Treasury should decide whether compensation or relief is to be given or withheld. “Why should there be any distinction?” it was asked. “Such inquiries by Treasury officials are unpleasant and incur cost. “It should be remembered that poverty does not always manifest itself or declare itself. There ought to be a fixed scale paid immediately in all cases.” There is no doubt that the ambiguity brought to light in the case of Viscount Knebworth has occasioned disquiet and will have an adverse effect on recruiting. Existing Acts provide for total exemption from death duties in the case of men killed on service where property does not exceed £5OOO. In the case of a larger amount the first £5OOO - is exempt from duties. On the remainder only such duties are to be paid as—accumulated at interest —would produce the full duty on the property at the end of the owner’s normal life.