HC Deb 23 August 1945 vol 413 cc807-8W
Sir W. Smithers

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in paying claims for compensation on the loss of furniture through enemy action, he will take into account the disparity between money values at the time of loss and the time of replacement.

Mr. Ellis Smith

As regards those cases in which payment of compensation under the private chattels scheme is deferred, I can at present add nothing to the general assurance given by the then Parliamentary Secretary on 3rd June, 1942, during the Debate on the War Damage (Amendment) Bill. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of that assurance. Where, however, for special reasons earlier payment is made, the amount assessed may be increased to enable essential goods to be repaired or replaced immediately.

Squadron-Leader Fleming

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer on what date payment will be commenced, under the War Damage (Chattels) Act, to claimants who were insured there under but who have not yet received any sum for the damage suffered through enemy action.

Mr. Dalton

This date cannot yet be fixed. It will depend not only on financial considerations but on the availability of supplies, particularly of furniture and clothing.