HC Deb 15 October 1940 vol 365 cc589-90
56. Mr. Glenvil Hall

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, as the income limits at present imposed upon claimants for immediate compensation for damage caused by air-raids have created hardship for many people, he will consider the possibility of raising them?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)

As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has already explained, appropriate mitigating measures are being taken in the border-line cases lying just above the income limits normally prescribed for advances in respect of essential furniture and clothing, etc.

Mr. Hall

Will the Chancellor say what he considers to be a border-line case? I understand that the limit is now £250 for an individual, and £400 for a family man, but does he not think it is rather low?

Sir K. Wood

I have asked the officers concerned to be generous in their application. The question is receiving consideration. If the hon. Member has any case in mind, I shall be glad to have it examined.

Mr. Hall

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that £350 is very often a case for consideration? Surely such a case cannot be described as a border-line case?

Sir K. Wood

I shall be making further proposals to the House in relation to this matter.

68. Mr. Touche

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that in many cases of war damage to property it is not possible for the claimant to deliver a detailed claim within 30 days; and whether in such cases the Inland Revenue are prepared to grant a reasonable extension of that period?

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Captain Crookshank)

Yes, Sir. It is stated on the form of claim that in the circumstances mentioned by my hon. Friend a reasonable extension of the 30 days will be allowed.