§ 71. Mr. RUPERT GWYNNEasked whether any motor cars have been purchased for the use of inspectors under the National Insurance Act; and, if so, how many cars have been bought, and what is the total cost?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe answer to the first part of the question is in the negative; the second does not, therefore, arise.
§ 72. Mr. GWYNNEasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether regulations have been made under which inspectors under the National Insurance Act are to work; whether there is any provision or recommendation that two and sometimes three inspectors travel round a district together in a motor car; and, if not, will he take steps to see that public money is not spent in this way?
§ Mr. MASTERMANInstructions as to travelling have been issued to inspectors under the Act similar in character to those issued by other Government Departments having an outdoor staff. These instructions provide that the most economical method of locomotion shall be adopted consistent with due provision for the duties to be performed. If the hon. Gentleman has any instance in which he has evidence that public money has been unnecessarily expended, I shall be glad if he will communicate with me.
§ Mr. GWYNNEIs not two or three inspectors going round together an unnecessary expense?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI should think that two or three inspectors going round together would save money that would otherwise be spent.
§ Mr. GWYNNEDoes the right hon. Gentleman think that the time of these inspectors, who get £700 a year, is worth so little that they use the motor cars in the way I have suggested?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI should have thought motor cars would be adopted to save that valuable time.