§ 42. Rear-Admiral Beamishasked the Home Secretary what decision was reached at the recent conference between his Department and representatives of the motor trade concerning the interpretation of Section 4 (1) (a) of the Compensation Act, 1939; whether he is aware that continued failure to make payments is likely to result in writs being issued against local authorities who have impressed vehicles; and what steps he proposes to avoid this happening?
§ Sir J. AndersonMy hon. Friend, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Home Security, received this deputation on Monday last, and I am at present examining, in conjunction with the other 394 Departments concerned, the representations then submitted. With regard to the second and third parts of the Question, interim rates for private cars were issued on 25th October last, and local authorities were asked to make payments at those rates, pending the issue of final rates. Final rates were issued on 14th December last. If claimants are dissatisfied with the rates for requisitioned cars, they may refer the matter to the appropriate tribunal under the Compensation Defence Act.
§ Rear-Admiral BeamishIs it not a fact that the whole question hinges on the interpretation of a Clause in the Act and is it not possible to get the highest legal opinion in the country and have the thing settled?
§ Sir J. AndersonI do not think that the thing could be settled finally without reference to the appropriate tribunal.