HC Deb 15 July 1912 vol 41 cc21-2
39. Mr. JAMES THOMAS

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that a number of employers in Derby are compelling their employés to give their ages for the alleged purposes of the National Insurance Act; and, as this information is only requisite for approved societies, whether he will take action to prevent men from being weeded out as being too old?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am not aware that employers in Derby are taking action of this kind. Perhaps my hon. Friend will give me further particulars and I will consider whether I can usefully communicate with the employers he has in mind.

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

Are the employers not bound, if they suspect the age in the return is not accurate, to ask for a birth certificate?

Mr. MASTERMAN

No, I do not think any employer under the Act is bound to ask for, nor is an employé bound to furnish, a birth certificate.