§ 42. Colonel Gomme-Duncanasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the total of claims received under the war damage scheme for the British Solomon Islands Protectorate; and what is the amount available.
Mr. Creech JonesClaims registered amounted to £1,180,000. It was, however, decided not to set up a War Damage Compensation Scheme since the native 2021 economy had already been largely restored and adequate capital resources are available in other cases. Money has been made available to provide interest-free loans to planters needing them to restore their properties.
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanIs it not a fact that one or more planters have lost everything as a result of the Japanese occupation? Should they not be treated on the same footing as other people in other colonies who have at least been compensated?
Mr. Creech JonesWith respect to other islands there were insurance schemes. In any case, these territories are grant-aided, and the conditions of production since the war are extremely remunerative.
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanIf I send particulars of a case to the right hon. Gentleman will he look into it?