§ MR. J. MACVEAGH (Down, S.)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to announce his decision with regard to an inquiry into or legislation dealing with the practices of insurance societies, friendly societies, and kindred organisations.
§ MR. CHURCHILLI do not feel convinced at present that the best way to deal with the matter would be by a formal inquiry. Such a course might cause unnecessary apprehension and tend without any sufficient cause to disturb the confidence of the insuring public. The Board of Trade have, however, been in communication with the Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies, who is issuing a notice to collecting societies, pointing out the recent decisions in the Courts in 503 regard to insurable interest, with a view to steps being taken to comply with the law. I propose to adopt a similar course towards industrial assurance companies.