HC Deb 23 July 1954 vol 530 cc162-3W
Sir W. Darling

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that, owing to requisition, permits for £50,000 for the Golf View Hotel, Nairn, and £70,000 for the Marine Hotel, North Berwick, were sanctioned by the Ministry of Works for rehabilitation, that no part of the cost of these necessary improvements is claimable against his Department; and if he will consider re-opening the inquiry.

Mr. J. R. H. Hutchison

My right hon. Friend is aware that permits for work on rehabilitation of these hotels were given by the Ministry of Works and that the work included improvements to the hotels. The War Office is not liable for the cost of any such improvements, but only for the damage done during the military occupation. The latter compensation was assessed by an independent tribunal appointed under the Compensation (Defence) Act, 1939, and the amounts awarded have been paid. My right hon. and learned Friend the Lord Advocate is replying to the two Questions on reopening the inquiry, of which my hon. Friend has given notice.

Sir W. Darling

asked the Secretary of State for War for what period the Marine Hotel, North Berwick, was occupied by the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers as a training school; when the marching-in state was submitted; and on what date it was signed

Mr. J. R. H. Hutchison

This hotel was requisitioned by the War Office on 12th April, 1941. Records of the units which occupied it during the war are not now available, but the first unit entered on 5th May, 1941, and the hotel was occupied by a unit of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers on 30th October, 1945, when it was derequisitioned. A marching-in state was prepared on 24th April, 1941, and signed on behalf of the hotel proprietors on 4th May, 1941, and on behalf of the War Office on 6th June. 1941.

Sir W. Darling

asked the Minister of Works what rehabilitation grant was paid by his Department to Gleneagles and Turnberry Hotels, respectively; and what was the amount actually claimed in each instance.

Sir D. Eccles

Compensation payments were made in agreement with the British Transport Commission in respect of both hotels, but it would be contrary to practice to give the details.