§ 89. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Minister of Munitions whether he is aware that in connection with the East End explosion a number of claims for compensation were made and amounts in settlement agreed to by the Ministry; that delay takes place in paying over the money to the claimants; that the representative of the Ministry has caused irritation by informing Mr. Parnell that he intends to review his claim and make him wait some weeks for a settlement; and if he will take action in the matter?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of MUNITIONS (Mr. Kellaway)The Ministry has instructed assessors to assess damage caused by the East London explosion for which claims have been made, and their recommendations are examined by the Ministry. It is only in very exceptional circumstances that after an assessor has made a recommendation it has been found necessary to make special inquiries, thus causing delay. Over 11,000 claims have been lodged. Of this number 5,650 have been approved, and 5,586 actually paid. Nearly all the claims for personal injury and furniture have been met. Several claims have been made in the name of Parnell. So far as can be ascertained at present in none of them has it been suggested that it is intended to review the claim and delay settlement. If the hon. Member will state the full name of the claimant, inquiry shall be made into the particular case.