HC Deb 15 May 1912 vol 38 cc1115-7
Mr. GODFREY LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked how long a period of training is considered necessary by the Insurance Commissioners before official lecturers can be deemed qualified to instruct the public on the National Insurance Act?

Mr. MASTERMAN

No particular time of training can be laid down in this or any similar work, as it must be dependent both on the previous knowledge of the subject possessed by the official, and on the rapidity with which he is able to acquire fresh information.

Mr. GODFREY LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether he can see his way to admit the Press to the lectures given by the official lecturers on the Insurance Act; and, if not, will he state the reason for his refusal?

Mr. MASTERMAN

As I have already stated in the House the request for privacy at such meetings came from the representatives of trade unions and friendly societies. In special training courses arranged and paid for by the Commission this condition is continued. But in no case in which those convening the meeting and paying for its expenses desire the admission of the Press is any objection offered by the Commissioners.

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

May I ask if members attending a special training course have to sign a paper that they will not divulge what went on?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I cannot answer that offhand. It is at the request of those trained that the private character of the course is maintained.

Mr. GODFREY LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked whether meetings addressed by official lecturers on the Insurance Act are advertised by leaflets containing the following promise: Your doctor's bill will be paid; and whether such a promise has been authorised by the Commissioners?

Mr. MASTERMAN

No leaflet containing the statement referred to has been issued by the Insurance Commissions. In every case where medical benefit is referred to, it has been explained as defined by the Act as medical attendance and drugs or the money equivalent.

Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that meetings have been convened by official leaflets on which that statement has been made?

Mr. MASTERMAN

No, I have no information at all upon that subject.

Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSON

It is so!

Mr. MASTERMAN

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will be good enough to furnish me with particulars.