HC Deb 13 November 1951 vol 493 cc798-800
21. Sir I. Fraser

asked the Secretary of State for War what arrangements he has been able to make to mitigate the hardship caused to wives and families of Service men who have been obliged hurriedly to return from or leave the Suez Canal zone.

Mr. Head

I would express my sympathy with these families who have had to move so hurriedly. A number of steps have been taken to meet their problems. Special arrangements have been made to meet these families, with the co-operation of the Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association and Women's Voluntary Services in order to avoid delay and inconvenience on their arrival. Families who have no homes to go to may choose to be accommodated either in boarding housese or hotels in Black pool or in military hostels, where moderate charges for board and lodging will be made.

In the case of those who went to join their husbands in the "Empress of Australia" and had to return home in the same ship, the husband will be eligible for a grant to meet the special expenses incurred. In most of the other cases a special disturbance allowance will be paid.

My hon. Friend will already be aware of the arrangements announced yesterday by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister for compensation to those who have sustained losses in the Canal zone disturbances.

Sir I. Fraser

Will my right hon. Friend make—or perhaps he has already made—representations to the Minister for Housing and Local Government to secure both the co-operation of that Minister and the co-operation of local authorities in giving these families preference for housing when they return and are homeless?

Mr. Head

Every possible step is being taken to see that these families who have returned are provided with accommodation as rapidly as possible.

Sir I. Fraser

Has my right hon. Friend made that representation?

Mr. Head

I would not undertake that any absolute priority for these families can be given over all other requirements, but I can assure my hon. Friend that we are doing everything in our power to ensure that these families will not suffer hardships for operational reasons.