§ 37. Sir WILLIAM PEARCEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, as the ordinary fire insurance policy does not appear to cover incendiary fires proved to have been the work of enemy agents, the Government will take steps to meet this kind of liability?
Mr. RUNCIMANMy right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has asked me to answer this question. I am at present considering whether a scheme can be devised to cover loss and damage by bombardment and aircraft in so far as such damage and loss are not covered by the terms of the ordinary fire insurance policy. The payment of adequate premiums by the persons insuring their property will, of course, form an essential feature of any scheme. I hope to be able to make an announcement shortly.
§ Mr. WATTWill the right hon. Gentleman take care that those insurance companies which do not take any risk do not benefit?
An HON. MEMBERWill the right hon. Gentleman, before he comes definitely to a conclusion on the scheme, receive representations from responsible commercial and banking bodies?
Mr. RUNCIMANWe have had a great many representations from commercial and banking bodies of various natures, and we have also been in communication with insurance companies, with Lloyd's as well as others. If there is any fresh information conveyed to us we shall welcome it.