HC Deb 19 February 1914 vol 58 c1124
58. Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been called to the statement made at a meeting of the Employers' Parliamentary Association, on 16th January last, by Mr. J. Redman Ormerod, a member of the committee of the National Amalgamated Approved Society, the second largest approved society in the Kingdom, to the effect that it was known by those who were associated with the working of the National Insurance Act that the financial position of national insurance was becoming weaker as the days went by, that the basis upon which the calculations were originally made were inaccurate, and that as a consequence vast deficiencies would take place; and, if so, whether he proposes to take any action in the matter?

Mr. BENN

My right hon. Friend's attention had not been called to the statement referred to. On the general question raised by the hon. Member I would refer him to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for West Bradford on Monday last.

Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Is it not possible for the Government to give a day to the discussion of the whole question of deficiencies?

Mr. BENN

A question relative to the business of the House should be addressed to the Prime Minister.

Mr. BOOTH

Is my hon. Friend aware that the National Amalgamated Approved Society accept no responsibility for the statement mentioned in the question, and that the society is giving loyal service under the Insurance Act, and indicated quite recently that it asked for no vital amendments?

Mr. BENN

I have no doubt my hon. Friend's statement is correct; but I have no information.