31.
asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what sum was originally made available to meet war damage compensation claims in Malaya; how much has been paid; what percentage of the claims dealt with does the sum paid out represent; and when payments will be completed.
About£50 million will be available in all, of which£9 million has been paid to claimants. Final awards have been made in respect of 40 per cent. of the total number of claims made, and interim payments varying from 30 per cent.-60 per cent. in the various categories of claim.
It is estimated that payment will be completed by 31st December, 1955.Is my right hon. Friend aware that a year ago his predecessor said that these payments would be made quickly? Can he account for the very grave delay?
I cannot account for it, but I will look into this and see if the procedure can be accelerated.
Is my right hon. Friend aware that, according to a letter which I received today from the Commissioner for War Damages in Malaya, there are still 120,000 claims to be examined and assessed and there will be very considerable delay, and will he do his utmost to see that the matter is expedited?
Yes, Sir, I will do my utmost.