HC Deb 30 April 1913 vol 52 c1169
43. Mr. MONTAGUE BARLOW

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman will arrange to dispense with a separate coloured card for low-wage workers; and whether the fact that such workers are now required to have a card of a special colour works as a handicap against them?

Mr. MASTERMAN

The method originally adopted for dealing with persons to whom the special scales of contribution set out in the Second Schedule to the National Insurance Act apply proved so unsatisfactory in working that the special cards referred to in the question were devised. I have had no complaints that workers to whom these cards are supplied find that they are handicapped in consequence in the search for employment.

Mr. MONTAGUE BARLOW

Will the right hon. Gentleman take this matter into consideration if I give instances, because I can assure him it is very serious?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am not altogether satisfied with the system, like the hon. Gentleman, and I shall be very glad to confer with him on the subject.