HC Deb 02 November 1943 vol 393 cc514-5
28. Mr. Astor

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the Combined Services Advisory Bureau, of 8, Hazlewood Court, Victoria Rise, Clapham, S.W. 1, has any official recognition as a war charity; whether it is registered as such; and whether he has any information concerning its activities?

Sir J. Grigg

As far as I am aware, the answer to the three parts of my hon. Friend's Question is "No, Sir."

Mr. Astor

In view of the fact that this organisation is circularising ex-Service men who have had accidents, on paper with a heading which makes it look as though it is an official charitable organisation, will the right hon. Gentleman consult with the appropriate Government Department as to whether they can take steps to prevent this from going on?

Sir J. Grigg

I believe my information is correct that it is not a Government Department at all which is responsible for dealing with that particular matter, but the London County Council.

Earl Winterton

Is it not the case that under the Charities Act the Home Office is certainly responsible, and will he in all these cases communicate with the Home Office, where there is reason to believe that ex-Service men or their dependants are being victimised?

Sir J. Grigg

My knowledge is not deep enough to challenge the Noble Lord's statement, but I am informed that the people primarily responsible are the L.C.C., but I will pass on the suggestion to the Home Office.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the right hon. Gentleman not make adequate provision for ex-Service men and their dependants and do away altogether with charity? Is it not a shameful thing that there should be charity?