HC Deb 25 July 1944 vol 402 cc592-3
55. Sir A. Knox

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury to what extent a smallholder can obtain compensation for damage to his holding on account of enemy action.

Mr. Dalton

I have been asked to reply. A smallholder can obtain full compensation for war damage to his equipment, crops and livestock by insurance under the Business Scheme (Farming) of the War Damage Act. If the total value of these goods does not exceed £100 they can be treated as if they were insurable under the Private Chattels Scheme, and the free cover afforded under that scheme would apply. Compensation for damage to land or buildings falls under Part I of the War Damage Act.

Sir A. Knox

Do I understand from that reply that if the damage does not exceed £100 he gets that amount without previous insurance?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

Under the present scheme there are sometimes rather unfortunate delays in giving these men money to which they are entitled and of which they are in need.

Mr. Dalton

I shall be only too glad to speed up the procedure in hard cases as far as possible.