§ 36. Mr. Ammonasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that a number of local authorities have heavy bank overdrafts due mainly to the non-payment of Government grants in respect of Civil Defence; and will he take steps to expedite payment?
§ Sir J. AndersonNo, Sir. I cannot accept the hon. Member's suggestion. Arrangements are in force to make interim grant payments when local authorities apply for them. Applications are dealt with expeditiously, but there has been delay on the part of authorities in rendering claims.
§ Mr. AmmonWhy does the right hon. Gentleman say that he cannot accept this statement? Is he not aware that in the Press it has been announced that local authorities are out of pocket by as much 208 as £100,000 in one case and £50,000 and £20,000 in other cases?
§ Sir J. AndersonThat is absolutely not the case. For example, out of 700 claims which might have been made by local authorities for the quarter ended 31st December only 241 claims have been received. Special arrangements have been made for dealing with claims promptly. The figures are practically the same for the fire service.
§ Mr. AmmonHow is it that it is stated in the Press that Wandsworth are £100,000 down, Lambeth £20,000 down, and Camberwell £50,000 down?