§ 2. Mr. Craven-Ellisasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will call the attention of insurance companies to the likelihood of a reduction in the number of claims arising out of both fire and burglary policies as a result of the new system of general fire-watching and prevention; and whether he will consult with them as to the possibility of some reduction in premiums?
§ Mr. LytteltonNo, Sir. In war-time the risk of fires and burglaries is increased in many ways, apart from enemy action. It is too soon to say how far the additional security provided by the fire-watching system will offset this extra risk.
§ Mr. Craven-EllisHas my right hon. Friend any evidence to support his statement; and if the premium cannot be reduced, can he approach the insurance companies, with a view to getting them to make some contribution towards the cost of maintaining watchers?
§ Mr. LytteltonThe figures for 1939–40 support my statement.
§ Mr. Craven-EllisWould it be possible to publish those figures?