§ Mr. GILBERTasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware of the fact that St. Simon's Church Institute, Bethnal Green, was used by several thousands of people at a time during the air raids in London, and that the premises were used for other urgent public purposes connected with the War; and whether, in view of the damage done to these premises, and the heavy cost falling upon the owners, he is prepared to consider making a grant towards the necessary repairs?
§ Mr. SHORTTI understand that the Institute authorities allowed members of the public to make use of the premises as an air-raid shelter, and that considerable numbers availed themselves of it. I know of no public fund from which compensation can be given for damage done by persons using the premises.