Captain BENNasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what amount has accrued to date under the German Reparation (Recovery) Act; whether this money is in the hands of the British Government; and what is the reason for the delay in meeting the claims of seamen and others against this fund?
86W
Mr. YOUNGThe amount received under the German Reparation (Recovery) Act up to the 2nd November inclusive was £1,470,797. The money has been paid as to £1,468,000 into the Special Account at the Paymaster-General's Office under the Act, where it is held pending final settlement of the distribution of receipts from Germany under the schedule of payments of May last. The prior charge for repayment of the cost of the Army of Occupation has not yet been covered, and the money is not therefore in any case available as a fund out of which payments can be made to sufferers from enemy action under the announcement of 10th May, 1920.