HC Deb 16 May 1912 vol 38 cc1281-2
Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether, in view of the number of inquiries in reference to the health insurance of domestic servants, he can state whether any society consisting exclusively of domestic servants has yet made application for approval to the Insurance Commissioners; and, if so, what is its name and address?

Mr. MASTERMAN

The Domestic Workers' Union of Great Britain has stated its intention of forming a separate section, for which it will probably apply formally for approval in a few days. The section will accept servants of both sexes. In Scotland two domestic servants' societies have applied for approval, namely, the Scottish Domestic Servants' Association and the Servants' Institution. The former of these is limited except for a small percentage to female domestic servants; the latter is limited to domestic servants, male and female.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Will the hon. Gentleman give the name and address?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I shall be glad to let the hon. Member have it when I have it.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Will the hon. Gentleman be good enough to announce it in the Press?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am not sure I can announce the name and address in the Press of one society without giving all the others.

Viscount HELMSLEY

Cannot the hon. Gentleman circulate it with the Votes?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am not sure it would be fair to give the name and address of one society only.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Cannot the hon. Gentleman communicate to the public generally information which will enable domestic servants to get the fullest possible benefits under the Act?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I think a very large number of approved friendly societies will be making efforts to obtain domestic servants among their insured members, but any statement at the present moment would be premature.

Viscount HELMSLEY

Cannot the hon. Gentleman point out to domestic servants—

Mr. SPEAKER

I think this is a very long way from the question on the Paper.