A LOCAL MP is pressuring the Government to award compensation to former Far East PoWs.

David Chaytor, Bury North MP, is lobbying his Labour bosses for cash payouts to be made to those who suffered at the hands of their Japanese captors during the Second World War.

As the prolonged compensation battle continues, Mr Chaytor has given his support to a Royal British Legion campaign.

The latest calls come after the Canadian government agreed to pay out compensation of around £10,000 to each of their surviving former Far East prisoners of war.

Mr Chaytor said: "A quarter of Japanese prisoners of war died in captivity and it's well recognised that they had to endure the most appalling conditions during their imprisonment.

"The Canadian government has recently recognised the special sacrifice made by their Far East PoWs and awarded each surviving prisoner of war compensation of around £10,000.

"I support the British Legion campaign for similar payments to be made to British survivors of the atrocities.

"Until now the Government has said that it prefers to help our former PoWs through the War Pensions Scheme, which gives assistance to ex-servicemen whose health has suffered as a result of military service.

"But, along with a number of other MPs, I'm pressing the Government to change its mind on this special case.

"It would be a fitting tribute to people whose sufferings have haunted them for the rest of their lives."

His compensation demands come just a month after the new Vicar of Bolton, Canon Michael Williams, used the VJ Day commerations to call for "justice" to be done and pay-outs made.

Support

Captain Bill Harris, chairman of Bolton Far East POW Association, welcomed the MP's support.

But Capt Harris, of Fleet Street, Horwich, admitted he was pessimistic about any cash awards being paid out.

The 84-year-old ex-soldier, who was a prisoner for three-and-a-half years, said: "After so many years, I very much doubt we will have any success."

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