§ " To provide for the repair of buildings used for purposes essential to the welfare of the civil population, and the reinstatement of the plant of undertakings carried on for such purposes, where the buildings or plant are damaged by war," presented, pursuant to the Order of the House this day, by Mr. Elliot; supported by Mr. Colville, Mr. Cross, and Miss Horsbrugh; and ordered to be printed. [Bill 234.]
§ 10.15 P.m.
§ Mr. ElliotI beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time."
The previous Bill dealt with the repair of war damage to housing accommodation. There are, of course, many other classes of buildings, the maintenance of which is essential to the welfare of the civil population, and this Bill deals on lines analagous to those of the previous Bill with essential buildings and plant other than housing. After the discussion on the previous Bill, I need not go into the details of this Measure.
§ Mr. SilkinThe House will, I am sure, welcome this Bill, and I would only ask the Minister to explain whether the financial provisions in this Bill are similar to those in the previous Bill and whether it is the case that no call will be made on local authorities, in respect of any loans which they may be required to make, until after the emergency.
§ Mr. ElliotYes, Sir. Any loans made by an authority or the cost of any expenses incurred by a local authority, in carrying out repairs will remain as registered charges on the property, and no demand for repayment will be made until after the emergency. A circular will be sent out to local authorities.
§ Question, "That the Bill be now read a Second time," put, and agreed to.
§ Bill read a Second time; considered in Committee; reported, without Amendment; read the Third time, and passed.