§ 90. Mr. WHELERasked whether men working in His Majesty's dockyards whose salary is over £160 a year are compelled to insure under the provisions of the National Insurance Act?
§ Mr. MASTERMANPersons employed otherwise than by way of manual labour are not required to be insured in respect of employment remunerated at a rate exceeding £160 per annum. All manual labourers are insured whatever their rate of remuneration.
§ 65. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the right hon. Gentleman whether, from the time of the coming into operation of the National Insurance Act to 16th May, the sum of 4d. a week has been deducted from the wages of naval apprentices over eighteen years of age in the Devonport Dockyard, but that on 16th May only 1½d. was deducted (being 1d. for one week and 2d. for the following week); and whether, in view of the provisions of the Truck Act, he will see that an immediate refund is made with an accompanying apology?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThese apprentices were regarded as civilians, and were consequently so treated in regard to the National Insurance Act. It was subsequently decided, however, that they should be treated as naval ratings for 885 medical attendance and treatment in naval hospitals, and an Admiralty Order to that effect was issued on the 4th April last. Refund will be made on account of the difference in contribution for the period from the completion of the third insurance quarter on the 13th April to the 16th ultimo.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEWill the fight hon. Gentleman let these men know that the refund will be made?
§ Dr. MACNAMARACertainly. We shall let them know with this statement.