HC Deb 29 March 1939 vol 345 cc2046-7
64. Major Milner

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the indecision of the Government in relation to the provision of insurance against war damage is causing a severe restriction of building activity in London and elsewhere; that difficulty is also being experienced in obtaining mortgage finance and when a complete statement of the Government's intention may be expected?

Captain Wallace

The policy of the Government in regard to insurance against war risks was outlined by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 31st January. He has made further statements in reply to questions, and I would refer the hon. Member in particular to the answer given to my hon. Friend the Member for South West St. Pancras (Sir G. Mitcheson) on 20th March. The policy is the result of a full consideration of the position, and I cannot accept the suggestion of indecision.

Major Milner

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the answer has hitherto been considered wholly unsatisfactory by the interests concerned, and may not the House expect some further statement at an early date?

Captain Wallace

That seems to be an entirely different complaint. The hon. Gentleman is now complaining of what he considers to be a wrong decision.

Major Milner

Then, when may we expect a right decision?

Mr. Holdsworth

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that nobody knows exactly what that answer really is. The property owners, building societies and everybody else are absolutely at a loss to know what the answer really means, and will not the Government really give some further explanation?