HC Deb 21 February 1912 vol 34 cc605-6
Mr. GINNELL

asked the Lord Advocate if the United National Friendly Assurance Collecting Society is correct in saying that he inquired fully into the working and management of that society, and pronounced it sound financially and legal in every form; will he say where a copy of that opinion can be seen, with the evidence on which it was based; and, if he disapproves of the use of that alleged opinion as a means of collecting money, what action he proposes to take in the matter?

The LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. Ure)

I have never had occasion to inquire into the working and management of the United National Friendly Assurance Collecting Society. A society called the National United Assurance Society, Limited—which I understand was under the same management as the Collecting Society—was reported to me last year as having contravened Section 2 of the Assurance Companies Act, 1909. After full inquiry, I came to the conclusion that there was no evidence to justify a prosecution under the Statute; and I issued instructions accordingly. I am informed that no statement to the effect set out in the hon. Member's question has been made to the knowledge of the management of either society. Such a statement would be incorrect.

Mr. GINNELL

Has the right hon. Gentleman seen any such statement?

Mr. URE

No, I have not.

Mr. GINNELL

Will the right hon. Gentleman read it if sent to him?

Mr. URE

Certainly.

Mr. GINNELL

asked whether the managing director of Ireland's Life Assurance Collecting Society is correct in assuring the public, as an inducement to join that society, that it is an approved society under the National Insurance Act; and, if not, will he be allowed to persist in giving that assurance?

Mr. MASTERMAN

No societies have as yet been approved by any of the Insurance Commissions or by the Joint Committee, and any statement to the contrary is untrue.

Mr. GINNELL

Will the hon. Gentleman answer the last part of the question, "Will he be allowed to persist in giving that assurance?"

Mr. MASTERMAN

Perhaps the hon. Member will call my attention to the paper in which the statement has been made.