42 and 43. Mr. David Adamsasked the Minister of Labour (1) whether Assistance Board allowances to bombed-out persons have increased in rate since the commencement of bombing in this country in order to cope with increases in the prices of goods to be purchased out of those allowances, and whether he is aware that, owing to scarcity and a sudden demand for goods, these prices frequently increase greatly at the times when the people are under the necessity of spending these allowances;
(2) whether he will publish figures showing the nature of the amounts paid to bombed-out persons by the Assistance Board; whether he will state the principles upon which payments are determined; and whether he is aware that apparent inequities are frequently complained of in bombed areas?
§ Sir A. DuncanI have been asked to reply. Payments by the Assistance Board under Part II of the War Damage Act are made within the terms of Treasury Regulations (S.R. & O. 1941 No. 787). The help given depends on the degree of loss, but the Regulations provide that, 1000 where it is necessary that goods damaged should be replaced immediately, the value of the actual loss suffered may be disregarded to such extent as appears necessary in order that the goods may be immediately replaced. The general principle which the Assistance Board observes is that the amounts granted shall be not less than will suffice to meet basic requirements. The grants, therefore, necessarily take into account any rise in prices. If the hon. Member will furnish me with particulars of the apparent inequities to which he refers, I will make inquiries.
§ 50. Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the help given by the Assistance Board to persons who have to replace essential clothing and furniture lost by enemy action is inadequate, in view of the fact that the Purchase Tax has to be paid on every article; and whether he will consider instructing the Revenue authorities, in such cases, to repay the tax on receipts and a certificate from the Assistance Board being tendered to them?
§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)No, Sir. I am assured that in making grants for the purpose stated, the Assistance Board take into account current retail prices, which would allow for any Purchase Tax included therein. Apart from this consideration, there is no legal provision under which repayment of Purchase Tax could be made in such circumstances.