HC Deb 06 July 1916 vol 83 cc1673-4
87. Sir A. MARKHAM

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the Government insist on canteen buildings situated in barracks being insured against air raids; whether these canteens are often situate in buildings which include other regimental institutes and whether, as a consequence, the whole block has to be insured; whether the insurance of this Government property is made in fact with the Government; itself through agents who are paid a 10 per cent, commission; whether the premiums are deducted from the canteen rebates, and therefore taken out of the pockets of the men; and, if so, whether this arrangement has been made following the first recommendation of the New Army Canteen Committee?

Mr. TENNANT

In the case of any lease of War Department property the liability for insurances is placed upon the lessee. This general principle applies to canteens, and canteen tenants are compelled by the terms of their agreement to insure the premises which they occupy against fire, enemy aircraft, and bombardment. If a canteen forms part only of a building, only the part which is occupied for canteen purposes is required to be insured by the tenant. Tenants in fulfilling their obligation to insure against damages from aircraft no doubt avail themselves of the facilities for insurance offered by the Government. The premiums are deducted from rebate. The form of agreement imposing upon tenants the liability to insure is that which was in use under the late Board of Control. The policy of allowing deduction from rebate was also instituted by the late Board of Control. The Army Canteen Committee have so far made no alteration in the rules with regard to insurance which they found in existence when they took over the administration of canteens, but they have had the whole matter under consideration.

Sir A. MARKHAM

Is the 10 per cent, mentioned in the question actually paid?

Mr. TENNANT

Yes, I think that is so.