HC Deb 07 April 1949 vol 463 cc2208-9
63. Mr. Grimston

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what steps are being taken to expedite settlement of the claims for loss of personal effects of Indian Army officers stationed in Burma at the time of the Japanese invasion, having regard to the fact that similar claims of British service officers in the circumstances are being met.

The Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (Mr. Philip Noel-Baker)

As my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State said in answer to a Question in the House on 15th February, I am examining the position of British officers of the Indian Army under the various compensation schemes. I regret that my investigations are not yet complete; I will write to the hon. Member as soon as their result is known.

Mr. Grimston

Would the right hon. Gentleman give me any idea when the investigations are likely to be completed, because there is some hardship in the delay in dealing with this matter, and officers of the British Army have been dealt with?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I am aware of those facts and I am most anxious that no injustice should be done. I hope it will not be very long, but if the hon. Member will give me a little more time I might be able to get a better result.

Mr. Mott-Radclyffe

Could the right hon. Gentleman say how many claims are outstanding?

Mr. Noel-Baker

I could not give a figure that I would like the hon. Gentleman to hold me to, but I do not think it is more than 200 at the outside.