HC Deb 14 November 1929 vol 231 cc2207-9
70. Mr. MACPHERSON

asked the Minister of Health whether he can explain the reasons for the delay in reconstituting the governing body of the Seamen's Special Fund; whether he can say when the provisions of the National Health Insurance Act, 1928, will be funfilled in regard to that fund; and if he is aware that the delay in appointing a trustee of the fund in the place of the late Mr. J. Havelock Wilson involves the fund in expense which would otherwise be avoidable?

71. Mr. T. LEWIS

asked the Minister of Health whether he can explain the reasons for the delay in re-constituting the governing body of the Seamen's Special Fund; whether he can say when the provisions of the National Health Insurance Act, 1928, will be fulfilled in regard to that fund; and whether he is aware that the delay in appointing a trustee of the fund in the place of the late Mr. J. Havelock Wilson involves the fund in expense which would otherwise be avoidable?

72. Mr. GREENWOOD

I regret that there has been some delay in the reconstitution of the governing body of the Seamen's Special Fund. This has been due to the difficulty of determining to what bodies should be entrusted the nomination of representatives of the various classes of persons entitled to benefit out of the fund. I hope that the new governing body will be appointed and the vacancy in the office of trustee filled within the next few weeks. I cannot think that the existence of this vacancy can have involved the fund in any appreciable additional expense.

Major McKENZIE WOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman place on that Committee a representative of the Scottish fishermen?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that it is the statutory duty of the Government to fill this vacancy?

Mr. GREENWOOD

If the right hon. Gentleman will communicate with me I will consider the matter.

Major WOOD

Can I have an answer to my question?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I will consider that point; it is a matter upon which I should have to consult my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.