§ Mr. Rookerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many claims have been made under the Riot Damages Act 1886 in respect of the riots in Birmingham on 9 and 10 September; when he expects the first payments to be made; and what will be the proportion of payments met from his Department's Votes.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe compensation authority under the Riot (Damages) Act 1886 for the west midlands police area is the county council, which is responsible for receiving and considering claims arising from the Handsworth riot and for paying compensation. Such payments do not attract any form of Home Office grant but the county council has asked my right hon. Friend to make a contribution from central funds to the cost arising from the riot which may fall on the council and he is considering this request.