§ Sir J. Lucasasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether, in a case, of which he has been informed, where his Department requisitioned land, buildings, growing crops, farm implements and furniture five months ago and for which no payment has yet been made, he will authorise the immediate payment of a proportion of the compensation claimed, so that the claimant, a serving officer, may purchase a new house, in view of the fact that the option on this house is expiring and that the claimant agreed to accept the decision of the official arbitrator and, if necessary, to deposit the deeds of the new place?
§ Mr. HicksAbout 130 acres of land including a cottage, but not the mansion house, and certain furniture and other chattels were requisitioned from the claimant. The major part of the land is pasture and woodland, but there is also a kitchen garden containing growing crops. The major part of the furniture was placed in store and was not requisitioned. The claimant is still in possession of the cottage. No claim for payment of compensation under the Compensation (Defence) Act, 1939, has been received. The Department is always willing to consider making a payment on account of compensation. As the hon. and gallant Member is aware, it is proposed to purchase the claimant's interest on a basis agreed and the matter is being expedited as much as possible.