HC Deb 07 November 1944 vol 404 cc1255-6
52. Mr. Hamilton Kerr

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the increased cost of living during the war and the increase in the cost of household goods which need replacement, he is satisfied that the amount of £1 Is. per week paid in respect of civil servants billeted on householders is a reasonable sum; and whether he will at this stage, review the position and relieve these householders to some extent of a heavy burden of indirect taxation.

Sir J. Anderson

The guinea a week paid in respect of civil servants billeted on householders is intended to provide for accommodation and two meals a day. The payment made to billetors in respect of civil servants is comparable with that paid in respect of other classes of billetees and I see no reason for its alteration.

Mr. Kerr

Is my right hon. Friend aware that great disatisfaction exists amongst householders in towns where civil servants are posted, especially those who have linen goods worn out, and crockery broken? These are expensive and hard to replace, and these householders think they are being badly treated.

Sir J. Anderson

I am alive to these considerations, but I have pointed out that this question refers only to one class of the large numbers of persons who are billeted at the public expense.

Mr. W. J. Brown

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when the Minister of Labour sends a workman from one town to another, he allows 24s. lodging allowance? Will the Chancellor be at least as generous as his right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour, in dealing with the category mentioned in this Question?

Sir J. Anderson

I indicated in my reply the limited scope of the provision which is covered by this amount.