HC Deb 23 March 1914 vol 60 cc21-2
41. Mr.GODFREYLOCKER-LAMPSON

asked whether the inquiry of the Departmental Committee into excessive sickness and deficiencies under the National Insurance Act is a secret inquiry, or whether the evidence will be published when complete?

Mr. BENN

I do not know what the hon. Member means by a secret inquiry. In accordance with the usual practice, the proceedings of the Committee are confidential, but, as I have already stated, evidence will be published. To remove any misapprehension, I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the terms of reference.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Does the hon. Gentleman mean that he does not understand what a secret inquiry is?

Mr. BENN

I mean that the term is totally inapplicable to this inquiry.

42. Mr. GODFREY LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked whether the Government intend to appoint a Committee to inquire into excessive sickness and deficiencies in Wales under the National Insurance Act, Wales not being included in the scope of the inquiry of the Departmental Committee now sitting?

Mr. BENN

I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member on the 2nd instant.

Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSON

how does the hon. Gentleman propose to find out whether deficiencies really exist without making inquiry?

Mr. BENN

I have already informed the hon. Member that the Welsh Commissioners are making inquiry to see whether any such deficiencies exist.