§ Mr. Stratton Millsasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will undertake an examination of the emergency services in operation after an explosion to see if these can be further improved, and in particular if arrangements can be made to simplify the procedure in dealing with small claims for damage, also extending the scheme to loss below £20.
§ Mr. David Howell:I am very glad to have this opportunity to pay tribute to the manner in which those operating the emergency services have responded to the serious problems created by the bombing campaign. The position will be kept under review so that if services can be improved this will be done.
There is a simplified procedure for dealing with small claims for compensation for damage to property caused by bomb explosions. There is no £20 limit in the case of such damage.