Sir C. G. Gibsonasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he is aware that in connection with the compulsory acquisition of hotels many people, including managers and staff, have been suddenly bereft of their livelihood; and has he any proposal of compensation or financial restitution to make, or alternative employment to offer?
§ Mr. RamsbothamThe payment of compensation in respect of the requisitioning of hotels is governed by the terms of the Compensation (Defence) Act, 1939, which received the Royal Assent on the 1st September last. Forms on which claims under that Act may be made have now been prescribed and are being sent to the parties concerned. With regard to the managers and staffs, wherever feasible arrangements have been made to continue the services of such as can be usefully employed, though I am aware that in many cases this has not been found possible.
§ Sir P. Harrisasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can give any approximate estimate of the cost, both in compensation to those turned out as well as rent, as the result of requisitioning hotels by the Government?
§ Captain CrookshankMy right hon. Friend regrets that he is unable at this stage to furnish any estimate of what compensation or rent may be payable in the cases to which the hon. Member refers. He will recall that, in default of agreement, the amount of compensation will fall to be determined by the Statutory tribunal.