HC Deb 13 June 1939 vol 348 cc1090-2
31. Mr. Gledhill

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the scheme for war-risks insurance has now been completed; and, if so, when the necessary legislation is likely to be introduced?

Mr. Stanley

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given on 5th June to the hon. and gallant Member for Handsworth (Commander Locker-Lampson).

Mr. Bellenger

In the absence of legislation, are any payments being made by His Majesty's Government on this account?

Mr. Stanley

No, Sir.

65. Mr. Lyons

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in connection with any scheme of insurance against risk of war damage, he will consider the practicability of establishing a pool-fund, to be contributed to by all property-owners as well as the State?

Sir J. Simon

I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement which I made on this subject on 31st January, 1939, and to the reply which I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Bosworth (Sir W. Edge) on 5th June. The proposal for a pool-fund, involving a State contribution, would not be compatible with the policy of the Government in this matter.

Mr. Cocks

Could the right hon. Gentleman say when that statement is likely to be implemented by legislation; and will legislation cover the case of land?

Sir J. Simon

I think the matter is one which should be raised with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade. I am afraid I cannot answer at the moment further than I have done.

Mr. Kirkwood

In the event of air raids or anything like that, the property owners are going to be compensated. Will the Chancellor make sure that, in any arrangement that is come to, human beings will be looked after just as well as property?

Sir J. Simon

I remember the hon. Member raising this point before. He will recall that I answered his question then, and answered it, I think, to his satisfaction. If he will look at the statement—of which I can send him a copy if he wishes—he will see that that is very well provided for.

Sir Herbert Williams

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there continues to exist among property owners and traders a great deal of anxiety? Will he give that anxiety his consideration?

Sir J. Simon

It is constantly receiving consideration.