§ Captain Pluggeasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that firms are not able to get fire watchers, even for high wages, because people still prefer to draw the dole rather than earn £4 a week and over doing a job possessing possibilities of danger; and whether he will advise local Employment Exchanges that in every case they should suggest to such unemployed able-bodied male workers that they should take up such employment?
§ Mr. BevinI would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply given to the780W hon. Member for Oldham (Mr. Hamilton Kerr) on 20th February of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. Isaacsasked the Minister of Pensions whether persons suffering illness other than physical injury caused by the carrying out of duties at their place of employment as fire watchers from exposure to the elements, or from fatigue arising from long hours without adequate rest will, as such risk is not part of the normal risk of their employment, be entitled to their wages during incapacity, or will they be covered by the provisions of the Personal Injuries (Civilian) Scheme; and what would be their position and rights under the National Health and Insurance Regulations?
§ Sir W. WomersleyThe question is one of fact in each case, but I am advised that conditions, such as those referred, to, might be held to fall within the term "physical injuries," and as such to be considered under the Personal Injuries (Civilians) Scheme if certified to have arisen out of and in the course of the performance of Civil Defence duties. Where such a certificate cannot be given any right to sickness or disablement benefit under the National Health Insurance Acts would not be affected.