HC Deb 17 July 1930 vol 241 cc1448-9
27. Mr. MORLEY

asked the Home Secretary what further progress has been made in scheduling the disease of fibrosis of the lungs under the Workmen's Compensation Act?

Mr. CLYNES

I would refer my hon. Friend to my reply to a similar question on the 10th April and to my letter to him of the same date in which I explained the position very fully. I regret I have nothing further to add at present.

Mr. MORLEY

Has there been no further progress since that date?

Mr. CLYNES

Yes, the committee to which I refer and which was appointed by the research board, has continued its work.

36. Mr. TINKER

asked the Home Secretary if his attention has been drawn to a number of colliery companies that have failed and gone into liquidation and that, consequent upon this, persons who are entitled to payments under the Workmen's Compensation Act cannot get their money; and will he take steps to amend the Workmen's Compensation Act so as to make the insurance compulsory?

Mr. CLYNES

I am well aware that workmen have suffered grave hardship in the way mentioned, and the Government has the question of further legislation—which would necessarily be of a far-reaching character—under serious consideration. I am afraid, however, that I am not in a position at present to make any statement.