§ Sir JOHN SPEARI beg to ask the-Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that in the cases where officers at, the time of effecting their policies have not arranged to pay an extra premium, and also in the cases of some restricted policies taken out by civilians who have volunteered, an extra premium of five guineas per cent. on the amount secured by their policies becomes payable immediately they are called out for active service, and if this amount is not paid the policies become void, and as many are unable to pay, would he either approach the insurance companies and ask them to waive their demand, or else give such assistance from the Treasury as would enable the sum to be paid, if persisted in?
§ Mr. MONTAGUMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister answered a question-on this subject last Thursday, when he-stated that the question was under consideration, and it was hoped that the matter would be settled without the intervention of the State. I am not yet in a position to give any further answer, but I still hope that it will not be necessary for-the State to intervene.
§ Sir J. SPEARWould it not be possible to ask these companies, at least, to forego their demand now, and be content to recoup themselves by deducting 5 per cent. if and when the insurance money has to be paid?
§ Mr. MONTAGUA communication has been addressed to insurance companies, and the matter is still in progress of negotiation.