§ Mr. G. Straussasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that many applicants for compensation for clothes destroyed by air-raids receive from the Unemployment Assistance Board sums far less than the value of their clothes; and, in view of the widespread resulting dissatisfaction, will he cause an inquiry to be made into the matter?
§ Captain CrookshankI have been asked to reply. The scheme administered by the Assistance Board of grants in respect of essential clothing is, so far as I am aware, being adequately administered by the Board. It is their practice to meet applications in the first place by payments on account, which is essential if prompt assistance is to be given. Further payments are made immediately the claim has been valued. As I have already informed my hon. Friend, I will readily investigate any particular case he has in mind.