§ Mr. Silkinasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent and in what circumstances cost of works payments are made during the war under the War Damage Act?
§ Mr. Silkinasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent and in what circumstances cash payments are made during the war to compensate persons whose property has been damaged or destroyed as the result of enemy action?
§ Sir K. WoodAny cost of works payment on which the War Damage Commission determines is made as soon after the completion of the works as the Commission is satisfied that the claim is in order. Generally, cost of works payments are made when the property is not a total loss within the meaning of Section 4 (1) (a) of the War Damage Act and there is no reason in the public interest why the damage should not be made good. Exceptionally, cost of works payments may be made notwithstanding that the damage involves total loss, if the Commission is satisfied that repair or reinstatement is in the public interest, or if the value of another property is affected. Payment of the cost of works executed for temporarily meeting the circumstances created by the damage is also made on the completion of the works. The other payments which the Commission is empowered to make without delay are advances to claimants in need of funds to secure housing or business accommodation, and value payments where the Commission is satisfied that immediate payment is necessary or expedient in the public interest. With regard to war damage to goods, under Part 2 of the War Risks Insurance Act, 1939, payment is made as soon as the damage has been assessed. Under Part 2 of the War Damage Act, 1941, payment is made immediately only in those cases in which the Board of Trade are satisfied that the replacement 317W or repair of the goods destroyed or damaged is expedient in the public interest; or in the case of the Private Chattels Scheme that it is expedient that the payment or part thereof should be made to avoid undue hardship. Early payment is also made if the claim as assessed does not exceed £100 in the case of the Business Scheme or £25 in the case of the Private Chattels Scheme.