§ Sir R. Gowerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the methods adopted in connection with the requisitioning of hotels and the absence of any proper arrangements to compensate those concerned for the grave losses which they have suffered in consequence is causing widespread discontent throughout the country; and whether, in these circumstances, he will set up without delay a Select Committee to investigate the position and make recommendations for its alleviation?
1080W
§ Sir R. Gowerasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, whether, in view of the feeling that the Compensation (Defence) Act in no way provides adequately for compensation in respect of losses of business revenue and goodwill following requisitioning of hotels by the Government, he will arrange in due course for the introduction of alternative legislation to deal with this matter?
§ Captain CrookshankMy right hon. Friend is not prepared to admit that before experience has been gained of the working of the Compensation (Defence) Act and before any claims have been submitted and dealt with, and, if necessary, the decision of the Tribunal taken thereon, there are adequate grounds for complaint, or that the need has arisen for further legislation. In any case, however, he does not consider that the matter in question could be appropriately dealt with by Select Committee procedure.