HC Deb 09 June 1915 vol 72 cc258-9
49. Mr. J. M. HENDERSON

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government intend to give compensation for damage done by air raids or bombardment throughout the country as they have done, or propose to do, in Hartlepool, Scarborough, and Southend; and, if not, whether, in view of the difficulty experienced by the public in insuring premises against such risks, the Government can see their way to insure the same on similar lines to their marine war risk insurance?

The PRIME MINISTER

I must refer to the answer which I gave yesterday on this question.

Mr. J. M. HENDERSON

The answer given yesterday was that relief would be granted in these cases as in previous cases, but my question covers all future cases, and I would like to know if there is going to be any change of policy?

Sir A. MARKHAM

May I ask whether compensation will also be given for persons injured and killed, as well as compensation for damage to property?

The PRIME MINISTER

There has been no change of policy, and there will not be.

Mr. J. M. HENDERSON

Are we to understand that in future depredations will be compensated as in the past?

The PRIME MINISTER

I said so yesterday, and I also said that we were considering the possibility of a State system of insurance.

Mr. WATT

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that the insurance companies do not benefit by the action of the Government, and that the payment of compensation by the Government does not relieve insurance companies who have taken the risk?

Mr. RAWLINSON

Are we to understand that it is not necessary now for householders to insure against this risk, but that the Government will undertake it?

The PRIME MINISTER

I have said that the Government are considering the question of general insurance with regard to this matter.

Mr. RAWLINSON

Must we continue our insurance until then?

The PRIME MINISTER

It would be a prudent thing to do.

Sir G. YOUNGER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a scheme of insurance of this kind was placed before the Chancellor of the Exchequer last August?

Sir A. MARKHAM

Would the Prime Minister say—yesterday he nodded his head—whether the Government scheme will cover compensation for persons injured or killed? These questions have only referred to the question of damage of property.

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, Sir.