HC Deb 22 September 1915 vol 74 cc447-8
37. Sir J. LONSDALE

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has considered the position of holders of debentures which are secured by property already insured against fire but not insured against air risks; and whether, for the protection of such debenture-holders, he will introduce legislation with the view of compelling trustees to insure such property against damage by enemy aircraft?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I have considered the question raised by the hon. Member, but, as at present advised, I do not think the matter is one in which special legislation is necessary.

Sir J. LONSDALE

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to direct the attention of trustees to their responsibility in this matter?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am not sure that my Department is responsible for communicating with the trustees. They have full advantage of the publicity which has been given to the scheme.

40. Mr. FELL

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the dissatisfaction which is felt on the whole of the eastern coast of England and in London at the working of the insurance scheme against damages from air raids; and what steps he proposes to take to meet the difficulty that the towns in the air-raid zone have not only to endure all the direct and indirect losses from the raids but have to pay insurance premiums from which the other towns in the country are exempt?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I have received some representations to the effect that the State should accept responsibility for damage by hostile aircraft or bombardment without payment of premium. After full consideration it was decided that the Government scheme should be one of insurance and not one of indemnity, and the scheme is working satisfactorily on that basis. The rate charged is a flat one, which means that although the risks may be greater on the East Coast and in London, the same rate is charged on property there as on property elsewhere.

Mr. FELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the corporations of a number of East Coast towns do not agree with, and have passed resolutions strongly condemning, this scheme?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am not at all surprised that corporations would like to get the insurance for nothing.

Mr. FELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when a flat-rate is charged they are paying 7s. for insurance on the stock in their shops on the East Coast? [HON. MEMBERS: "No, no."]