asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is now able to give any further information as to claims under the War Damage Act, 1943, Part II, Business Scheme, General; and when a date for the general settlement of claims will be fixed.

Fifty million pounds exclusive of interest has been paid out under the Business Scheme, including £45 million on grounds of public interest or undue hardship. As regards the second part of the Question, I cannot add to the answer given on 21st March to the hon. Member for Beverley (Mr. Odey).