HC Deb 10 October 1939 vol 352 cc165-6
58. Sir Robert Rankin

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether any amounts have yet been paid out to proprietors of requisitioned hotels to enable them to meet the demands on them; and if not, what he anticipates will be the earliest date on which the appropriate compensation will be available?

Captain Crookshank

No claims have actually been made as yet. Forms of claim have, however, for the most part already been issued to those persons in whose cases the Departments have evidence that claims will be rendered. Payment of compensation will be made as soon as possible after the receipt and examination of the claims, excepting disputed claims which have to be referred to the decision of the statutory tribunal. I should add that arrangements are in operation for the immediate payment on account of any admissible claim in cases of special urgency.

Sir Herbert Williams

May I ask my right hon. Friend if he can tell us whether any of the requisitioned hotels have had a human being in them since they were requisitioned?