HC Deb 26 June 1911 vol 27 c231
Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

asked whether a labourer in the Army Ordnance Department earning 17s. 6d. per week, who under the conditions of his engagement is entitled to sick pay equal to half his wages for three months but no other benefits similar to the minimum benefits of the National Insurance Bill, is included as an employed contributor or falls within the category of those exempted from the Bill?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

A person in employment under the Crown is only exempted under paragraph (b) of Part II. of the First Schedule of the Bill if the terms of his employment are such as to secure provision in respect of sickness and disablement on the whole not less favourable than the corresponding benefits under the National Health Insurance.

Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

Will the hon. Member state whether the benefits given to the labourers in the Army Ordnance Department, in his opinion comply with those conditions?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

As far as I can judge from the question the persons referred to would be found to be insured.

Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

Compulsorily insured?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

Yes.