HC Deb 10 November 1921 vol 148 cc599-600
46. Mr. GRITTEN

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the Royal Commission appointed to investigate the claims for reparation for damage in this country due to enemy action commenced its sittings; how many sittings it has held; how many claims it has examined and has yet to examine; and in how many cases has it advised that compensation should be granted?

Mr. YOUNG

The Royal Commission commenced its sittings in the latter part of August and has held six meetings. I understand that at those meetings the Commission has examined a number of typical cases for the purpose of determining general principles with a view to dealing with individual cases in the light of such general principles. The number of claims already received to date is 43,000.

Mr. GRITTEN

Can the hon. Gentleman say when the cases will be reached of the victims of the German bombardment of the Hartlepools in December, 1914, and is he aware that these victims have now waited nearly seven years?

Mr. YOUNG

I am afraid I cannot answer that question without inquiry.

Mr. GRITTEN

Will they have to wait another seven years?