§ 57. Major Milnerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the unnecessary demolition orders being made on war damaged properties by some local authorities which will result in vastly increased claims upon the War Damage Commission; whether owners have any right of appeal against such demolition orders; what instructions have been issued on this matter; and what steps he proposes to take to avoid this practice?
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Home Security (Miss Wilkinson)I have been asked to reply. I assume that my hon. Friend refers to work undertaken by local authorities as a direct consequence of war damage. Local authorities are authorised to act under Defence Regulations in the demolition and clearance of sites which have suffered war damage, where such action is necessary for public safety, the clearance of traffic routes, restoration of essential services, the safeguarding of public health, the prevention of fire risks or the salvage of goods. Subject to the specific approval of the Regional Commissioner, local authorities may also tidy up sites in built-up areas within certain limits. Where action is taken under the Defence Regulations there is no formal right of appeal, but representations by the owner would be given careful consideration. Local authorities have been reminded of the need to conserve all repairable property and they should have regard to the interests of the owner and of the War Damage Commission. I am not aware that unnecessary demolition is taking place, and if my hon. and gallant Friend will let me know of any cases he has in mind, I will have them investigated.
§ Major MilnerI have sent particulars of a number of these cases. Have they not been perused in the Department? Is there any outside advice taken, for 456 example that of the district valuers or the local surveyor, as to whether property should or should not be demolished? Does the hon. Lady appreciate that claims amounting to many millions of pounds will be made against the War Damage Commission which ought not to have arisen?
§ Miss WilkinsonWe have read the cases that my hon. and gallant Friend has sent in, and we frankly think there is a point in his Question. The question is very largely settled by local authorities. I could arrange, if he wishes, for him to have a discussion with our experts in the matter.
§ Major MilnerIs not the Department doing anything about it? Is there no authority to decide the matter?
§ Miss WilkinsonWe have every authority to decide the matter if a sufficient number of cases are put before us.