HC Deb 10 June 1912 vol 39 cc511-2
66. Sir HILDRED CARLILE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether, in view of the general interest taken in the subject, he will consider the advisability of permitting the Press to publish reports of the proceedings at meetings now being held under his Department in some centres for the purpose of explaining to women the provisions of the National Insurance Act?

Mr. MASTERMAN

Meetings are being supplied on application with women lecturers to give general instruction in the Act. At these no objection is being raised to the free admittance of the Press, if desired by those convening the meetings. Special courses of instruction for officials or would-be officials of approved societies are also being given and these, at the request of the organisations concerned, are private meetings. The Commissioners will be glad (as far as possible) to supply lecturers for general instruction in the Act as it affects women to any body of persons who will make arrangements for such lectures.

Mr. LLOYD

What does the hon. Member mean by those convening the meetings? Could anyone ask for publicity and the Admission of the Press?

Mr. MASTERMAN

Yes. If anyone convenes a special meeting and wishes the Press to be present we have no objection.

Mr. LLOYD

If anyone wishes to be present, to whom do they apply?

Mr. MASTERMAN

The conveners of the meeting.

Mr. AMERY

Can the hon. Member say whether the meeting of fifty ladies held at Birmingham—

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must give notice of a question of that kind.