Woolwich murder: Family to receive MoD financial support

The family of murdered soldier Lee Rigby will receive financial support in line with the arrangements for deaths on active duty, it has been announced.

Speaking in the Commons, House leader Andrew Lansley said the matter was one that "members across the House will sympathise with".

He said he was glad to assure MPs "the widow and child of Drummer Lee Rigby will receive financial support".

Drummer Rigby, 25, died near Woolwich Barracks, south-east London, on 22 May.

In the Commons on Thursday, Chris Kelly MP said the whole country had been "shocked and appalled at the grotesque and evil murder of Drummer Lee Rigby", who was from Middleton, Greater Manchester.

"Can we have a statement on what financial provision is being made by the MoD for Drummer Rigby's widow and son?," he asked.

Mr Lansley responded: "I think you ask a question which members across the House will sympathise with.

"I'm glad that I can assure you that the widow and child of Drummer Lee Rigby will receive financial support, as do the family of all those who have died in the service of this country.

"They may include a widow's pension, a bereavement grant, payments via the armed forces compensation scheme, a survivor's guaranteed income payment and child payments."

Trustees of the Armed Forces Memorial previously announced that Drummer Rigby's name would be engraved alongside those of fallen colleagues at the site in Alrewas, Staffordshire.

Of the 12 people arrested over the killing last month, two have been charged, eight bailed and two released without charge.

The two men accused of murder, who have been remanded in custody, are Michael Adebolajo, 28, from Romford, east London, and Michael Adebowale, 22, of Greenwich, south-east London.