§ 41. Mr. Cyril Benceasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to remove the financial burden being borne by the burgh of Clydebank as a result of the destruction, by bombing and consequent replacement of about 4,000 houses.
§ Mr. J. StuartThis matter was recently discussed at a meeting between my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Pollok (Commander Galbraith) and representatives of the Town Council, and is being considered in the light of the discussion.
§ Mr. BenceWould not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the bombing of Clydebank was consequential on the great contribution which the burgh of Clydebank made to the national war effort, and, therefore, also agree that the national Exchequer should bear the financial burden of the reconstruction of Clydebank, and not the citizens of Clydebank itself?
§ Mr. StuartI agree that the burden is a heavy one, but, as these representations have been made to me only recently, I would prefer to consider them.