HC Deb 01 March 1951 vol 484 cc2297-8
64. Mr. Assheton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can estimate the approximate total cost of war damage repairs not yet executed.

Mr. Jay

As the cost met by the War Damage Commission is the cost when the repairs are done, and much repair work must be deferred for some time owing to building licence restrictions, it is impracticable at this date to give a reliable estimate.

Mr. Assheton

Will the hon. Gentleman consider making some reference to this in the annual financial statement, for without some reference to it the statement of the nation's liabilities is incomplete?

Mr. Jay

It is not practicable to give an estimate of future liabilities, though we shall, of course, give past liabilities.

Mr. Keeling

Can the Financial Secretary give an estimate of the cost of war damage repairs for which the War Damage Commission have repudiated liability because the claims were not made in time?

Mr. Jay

No, Sir.