§ 31. Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSONasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been drawn to the decision of the Court of Appeal on 31st January in Bonney v. Hoyle, which has placed approved societies in a difficult position by preventing them appearing in Court as interested parties in workmen's compensation cases; and, if so, what the Government intends to do to meet the situation?
§ Mr. WEDGWOOD BENNMy right hon. Friend has seen report s of the recent case referred to by the hon. Member, and the effect of the decision upon the interests of approved societies is now under consideration. I would point out, however, that it does not in any way affect the right given to a society by Section 11 (2) of the National Insurance Act. 1911, to take action on behalf of its members in order to secure compensation.
§ Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSONIs it the fact that the decision practically tears up the Workmen's Compensation Rules allowing the societies to appear as interested parties at headquarters?
§ Mr. BENNThe principal Act provides that a society may take action on behalf of members if they choose to do so. This decision does not affect that.
§ Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSONIs it not the case that it affects their rights as interested parties?
§ Mr. BENNThe degree in which it affects their rights, except those rights to which I have referred, is being considered by the Commissioners.