asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that in the border fighting that occurred in Pettigo in June, 1922, a number of people suffered considerable losses through having to abandon their homes owing to military action, with the result that their crops for that year were practically ruined and their live-stock seriously injured through lack of attention for two or three weeks, and whether it is proposed to set up a "War Compensation Commission" to inquire into and make awards in respect of such losses with a view to payment.

A number of claims for compensation have been received in respect of injuries to property sustained during the course of military operations in the Pettigo area in May and June, 1922. These claims are being investigated through the ordinary machinery which we have set up for dealing with claims for damage to property, and payment of such amounts as may be approved will be authorised without prejudice to the question of ultimate liability, which is being pursued with the British Government. The need for setting up a Commission of the kind mentioned by the Deputy does not, therefore; arise.