§ 42. Mr. Raikesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why no war compensation claims have yet been paid to rubber producers in Malaya; how many of such claims have been agreed; when it is expected to complete payment; and why the payment has been deferred for over five years after the end of the Japanese war.
Mr. DugdaleInitial payments of 350 dollars are being made on each claim considered likely to be finally assessed for compensation in excess of that figure. Complete settlement of a claim must, however, await the assessment of all claims in the category concerned, when a final payment in that category will be made. It is expected that sufficient assessments of claims in the rubber category will have been made very soon to enable an interim payment to be made. With regard to the lapse of time since the end of the war, it should be borne in mind that the war damage scheme began to operate only a year ago, and it is inevitable that there should be delay in making payment while the work of assessment of the large number of claims submitted is being carried out.
§ Mr. RaikesIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the delay has very much burdened companies which not only suffered during the war but, during the few 393 years after the war, have done very badly? The sooner their claims are met the better for them.
§ Mr. AwberyIs my right hon. Friend also aware that the loss sustained by the plantation owners was really a monetary one whereas the workers in the jungle suffered hardship and semi-starvation for four years? When he is considering compensation for the plantation owners will he also consider compensation for those workers?
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksCan the right hon. Gentleman say when the companies will receive the first instalment of 350 dollars?
Mr. DugdaleNo, Sir. The Commission have more than 100,000 main claims registered; assessments have been completed and awards made on some 22,000.