HC Deb 24 October 1940 vol 365 cc1145-6
62. Sir George Broadbridge

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a number of firms in the textile trade, whose premises have been destroyed by enemy action, are being severely handicapped in carrying on business elsewhere owing to the inordinate length of time which is taken in settling claims for War Risks (Commodity) Insurance; and whether he will take steps to see that the settlement of claims is accelerated?

Major Lloyd George

There is no avoidable delay in settling claims under the Commodity Insurance Scheme, but my hon. Friend will recognise that the preparation and investigation of these claims may be protracted for special reasons such as the destruction of records, the temporary inaccessibility of damaged buildings, or the heavy demands falling on the expert assessing personnel in particular localities. In order to minimise the inconvenience to persons who have suffered loss, my Department is making substantial advance payments as an interim arrangement pending a final settlement in cases where circumstances justify this course.

Sir G. Broadbridge

Is my hon. and gallant Friend not aware that so far no assessor has been appointed by the Board of Trade, and that no official who is styled an insurance official has even established his department?

Major Lloyd George

In many cases assessors have been sent to the sites of damage before even the claims have come in, and I can assure the hon. Gentleman that in the very difficult circumstances obtaining in the last six weeks not only has there been no avoidable delay but that very great progress has been made.

Sir G. Broadbridge

If I give the hon. and gallant Gentleman particulars of a case of that kind, will he have the matter investigated?

Major Lloyd George

Certainly, I shall be very glad to.