HC Deb 06 May 1941 vol 371 cc686-7
36. Mr. Dobbie

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Shipping whether his attention has been called to the injustice inflicted upon seamen, under the Compensation to Seamen (War Damage to Effects) Scheme, when they have been victims of enemy action, as the compensation is based on the price of goods prior to the Purchase Tax coming into force; and is he prepared to take some action to remove this anomaly, as the compensation they receive cannot, by any means, buy that amount of replacements?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Colonel Llewellin)

I have been asked to reply. The amounts payable under the Compensation to Seamen (War Damage to Effects) Scheme have already been increased by 331/3 per cent., with effect as from 1st April, 1941, to cover Purchase Tax and general price increases since the outbreak of war.

Mr. Dobbie

If I submit evidence that in certain cases that has not been given effect to, will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman inquire into the matter?

Colonel Llewellin

I certainly will.