§ 35. Sir M. DOCKRELLasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that property to the value of many millions of pounds has been insured in Ireland against loss arising from riot, civil commotion, or action by the forces of the Crown; is he aware that none of these risks is covered by ordinary policies of insurance, that the rates quoted for them by underwriters are extremely onerous, and in the majority of cases prohibitive; and, seeing that the Government is alone able to estimate the risks to which property in Ireland is exposed, can he inaugurate a scheme of Government insurance for Ireland similar to that undertaken with such success during the War?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Lieut.-Colonel Sir Hamar Greenwood)I have no information as to the amount of the insurances referred to in the first part of the question. It is I believe the case that the risks mentioned are not covered by ordinary policies of insurance, but the Government is not prepared to inaugurate a scheme of State insurance to cover such risks.
§ Sir M. DOCKRELLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very great deal of apprehension in Ireland in reference to this, and that many millions of pounds have already been effected in insurance of this class of risk? Is he further aware that in this country there is a considerable demand for the same class of insurance, although, of course, in a minor form?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI am aware of all the apprehensions in Ireland.
§ Sir M. DOCKRELLWe ask you to protect us from them.