HC Deb 15 March 1945 vol 409 cc368-9
14. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for Burma to what extent allowances are still being paid to evacuees from Burma; whether arrangements have been made to repatriate evacuees to Burma as soon as military conditions permit and to provide financial assistance for the purpose; and what are the provisions to be made for compensation to Burmese who have lost their homes and livelihood and for their welfare.

The Secretary of State for Burma (Mr. Amery)

Provision for relief is being continued for evacuees from Burma, who are still in need of assistance, under schemes administered by the Government of Burma and, in respect of Indian evacuees, by the Government of India. Arrangements are under consideration for the repatriation of evacuees including provision for their welfare and for financial assistance where necessary. It will be appreciated that claims for compensation for war damage from all classes of the community can at present only be recorded and that decisions on these claims must wait until the civil government returns to Burma and the full measure of the problem can be ascertained.

Mr. Sorensen

While expressing my appreciation of the reply, can we take it that the poorer people will be guaranteed compensation in full?

Mr. Amery

Everything will be done to assist the poorer people to get back and to get employment but, as I say, the question of actual compensation for loss incurred in the invasion must wait until the total measure of need is ascertained.

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