HC Deb 02 April 1940 vol 359 cc12-3
20. Mr. Stephen

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether local authorities are to be regarded as the agents of the Government in their administration of the evacuation scheme; whether the Government accept financial liability for errors made by the authority in carrying out the scheme which involve financial loss to individuals; and whether it is the Government or the local authority who will pay damages awarded by the courts for loss sustained by parents owing to negligence in connection with the care of their children while they are away from home in a reception area?

Mr. Colville

In taking part in the administration of the evacuation scheme, local authorities are carrying out a duty imposed on them under the authority of the Civil Defence Act, 1939, which provides that the total amount of the approved expenses incurred by them in their exercise of this responsibility shall be repaid by the Exchequer. I am not prepared to make a general statement upon the effect of this provision in hypothetical cases, but if the hon. Member will send me particulars of any specific case which he has in mind I shall be glad to look into it.

Mr. Stephen

Is the Secretary of State not aware of the general question which has to be decided because of the difficulties of people not knowing against whom their action lies?

Mr. Colville

I do not know if I can go further than the general statement I have made in my answer.

Mr. Stephen

Does the answer mean that the Government are not prepared to accept responsibility?

Mr. Colville

Perhaps the hon. Member will read my answer, in which I state that a. statutory duty lies on local authorities and that as far as expenditure is approved it will be met.