HC Deb 28 November 1911 vol 32 c192
Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in making appointments of officials under the National Insurance Bill, preference will be given to branch secretaries of friendly societies who have hitherto done good service on behalf of their societies, or whether it is anticipated that such persons will be displaced by others who are not possessed of the same experience?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I was not sure whether my hon. Friend meant officials of the societies or officials of the Government.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Officials of the societies.

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I see no reason why officials of the societies should be displaced from their present employment by the Insurance Bill.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Will preference also be given to them for appointments under Government as officials of the Government?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

Of course, the Insurance Commissioners will appoint their own officials, and in the appointments regard will be had to the qualifications and merits of those appointed. I think it will be a great mistake to restrict the Commissioners in the area of their choice.

Mr. HARRY LAWSON

Is it proposed under the operation of the Bill in any way to interfere with the appointment by approved societies of their own officials?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

Oh, no; not in the slightest degree. That will be entirely left to them.