§ 36. Mr. HAYESasked the Minister of Health what local authorities have set up their own accident and workmen's compensation funds in connection with their trading services?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe general law does not empower a local authority to set up its own accident and workmen's compensation fund. I am advised that 46 authorities have obtained powers by local legislation, since 1900, to set up such funds in connection with their trading or other services, but I do not know to what extent the powers have been actually exercised.
§ Mr. HAYESCan the right hon. Gentleman say to what extent real economies have been effected by this policy.
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am afraid I cannot say; I do not know to what extent the powers have been exercised.
Mr. HOPKINSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that an excellent system of mutual insurance exists among local authorities?