HC Deb 10 July 1913 vol 55 cc593-4
67. Mr. SNOWDEN

asked if the National Health Insurance Commissioners take any steps to see that the approved societies observe the Fair-Wages Resolution in regard to the remuneration paid by the societies in connection with the insurance companies to their agents for the work they do under the National Insurance Act; if the remuneration paid to these agents is approved by the Commissioners; whether any representations have been received by the Commissioners as to the inadequacy of the agent's remuneration which is fixed by the insurance companies; and if any action is being taken by the Commissioners to secure that the workmen employed under the Act are not paid at a sweated rate?

Mr. MASTERMAN

As I have previously stated in answer to questions and to a number of representations on the subject, the Commissioners have no power to interfere in the rates paid to agents for such, work as they do for the National Insurance Act in addition to their normal work, as this is a matter to be settled between themselves and the societies employing them. The rates are not approved by the Commissioners, and the resolution referred to is not applicable.