War Damage Claims

HC Deb 12 May 1953 vol 515 cc1037-8

18. Brigadier Clarke

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will give an estimate of the total amount of money involved in settling all war damage claims other than Part II of the War Damage Act, 1943.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I regret that this information is not available.

Brigadier Clarke

Will my right hon. Friend give consideration to closing down the War Damage Commission at the earliest possible date, as that would save the country a lot of money?

Mr. R. J. Taylor

If he considers this question at all, will the Chancellor take into consideration that other class of people who want their post-war credits?

Mr. Butler

There are a number of Questions about post-war credits to be answered later on. Meanwhile, in answer to my hon. and gallant Friend, I would point out that the War Damage Commission are still paying about 1,500 claims a week and the average weekly cost is about £700,000, so it would seem rather a pity to close them down.