HC Deb 22 July 1912 vol 41 cc804-5
44. Mr. TYSON WILSON

asked whether trade unions having members in different parts of the United Kingdom are and have been handicapped by reason of the delay being met with at the hands of the Joint Commission in seeking to become approved under the National Insurance Act; and the reasons for this delay?

Mr. MASTERNAN

I am informed that of seventy-two trade unions which have applied for approval by the Joint Committee, fifty-six have been approved. In thirteen of the remaining sixteen cases, the Commissioners have sent criticisms of their proposed rules and are now awaiting replies from the unions. In the remaining three cases, in which the rules proposed by the unions are now being examined, formal application was not received until this month.

Mr. WILLIAM THORNE

Have not a number of trade unions been handicapped in consequence of not being able to get State insurance cards?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I think that every trade union that becomes an approved society has received as many cards as it desired. If there is any difficulty in obtaining cards I hope my hon. Friends will communicate with me.

Mr. W. THORNE

One union was held up for two days.