§ 38. Sir R. THOMASasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in cases where shopkeepers and trades have suffered losses as the result of street explosions or bursting water mains, and where liability cannot be attached to any particular public or private authority, he will consider the question of allocating some grant-in-aid towards the assistance of such financial sufferers from circumstances beyond their control?
§ Sir R. THOMASCan the Financial Secretary give the reasons?
Mr. SAMUELThe hon. Member asks whether the Chancellor of the Exchequer will consider the question of allocating some grant-in-aid towards the assistance of such financial sufferers for circumstances beyond their control where the liability cannot be attached to any particular authority. That is a very strong order, and the liability is one which could not be placed on the taxpayer.
§ Mr. TAYLORWill the Financial Secretary stimulate a revolt among the back benches on the Government side to force the hands of the Cabinet in this matter?