§ 80. Mr. PATRICK WHITEasked the Prime Minister if the instructions sent by Sir William Goulding's Committee to the-assessors to simply mark any claims from the ruined area in Dublin in excess of insurance, and return them without further inquiry was intended to convey that the amount insured for would be forwarded as a payment on account or as a final settlement; whether, in view of the necessity of a clear understanding before dealing with the Dublin Reconstruction (Emergency Provisions) Bill to-night, he will now state if the Government will pay as compensation replacement value or the value of the structures at date of destruction; and whether rent, and, if so, how many years will be added to the ex gratia grant?
§ Mr. DUKEMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. The Committee have instructed their assessors to make only a preliminary report in certain cases where a decision as to the basis of payment has not yet been come to, so as to avoid delaying the general body of cases. Where a full assessment has been made, it represents the value of the property at the date of destruction. Replacement value will not be paid. Rent, when insured, has been allowed for within, the limit of the insurance up to one year.