§ 30. Mr. WRIGHTasked whether curates of the Church of England and curates of the Roman Catholic Chuch, whose incomes are less in amount than £160, come within the provisions of the Insurance Act as to compulsory insurance; and, if so, who is responsible for the employers' contributions?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe question of the position under the National Insurance Act of curates of the Church of England has been submitted for decision by the High Court under Section 66 of the Act. The Commissioners will be prepared, if application is made to them, to make arrangements for the determination of the position of curates of the Roman Catholic Church as soon as the decision of the Court in the case of Church of England curates has been given.
§ Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTWhen is a decision likely to be given? The matter is of immense importance to the clergy.
§ Mr. MASTERMANI think the case is going to be taken next week.
Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANSWhat is to be done by the curates meanwhile? Will anyone be liable for penalties for not stamping a card?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI do not think any penalty would be enforced. The advice is given in all cases that payment should be made, and it will be subsequently refunded if the decision goes the other way.