§ 34. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the Kensington 18 Fine Art Society, Limited, South Kensington, was summoned for failing to stamp the health insurance cards of four employés; that in one case the default extended for five years and in another case three years; that the magistrate ordered the maximum arrears to be paid; and the maximum, was in no way the full extent of the arrears owing, whether the employés concerned have been penalised in any way in consequence of their cards being unstamped; and if he intends taking any action in the matter?
§ Sir K. WOODThe proceedings referred to by the hon. Member were mainly concerned with unemployment insurance, which is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour. Health insurance was involved in the case of only one employé, the period of default being less than one year, and the magistrate ordered the contributions to be paid in full. I am not aware whether this employé has lost any benefit through the company's failure to pay contributions at the proper time, but if he has, he has a right of recovery against the company.
§ Mr. THORNEDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think the time has arrived when some of the insurance stamp defaulters were sent to one of His Majesty's institutions to complete their education?