§ Mr. Freudasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) how many claims for compensation under Section 278 of the Public Health Act 1936 have been granted in full or in part and how many refused after arbitration in each of the last three years;
(2) if he will introduce legislation to limit legal costs incurred by individuals seeking compensation from local authorities in respect of claims under Section 278 of the Public Health Act;
(3) on what grounds a local authority may defer or refuse payment of compensation under Section 278 of the Public Health Act 1936.
§ Mr. OakesClaims under this section are made by the persons concerned direct upon the local authority and disputes are settled by arbitration or by the courts. My right hon. Friend has no jurisdiction over these matters, no information as to the claims made and no plans for amending legislation.