HC Deb 16 June 1931 vol 253 cc1613-4
32. Mr. STEPHEN

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department the names of the medical referees on the panel for workmen's compensation cases and the number of claims heard by each during the last year; and the number of cases in which each medical referee certified the workman fit for light or ordinary work?

Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLE

Before this question is answered, may I ask the hon. Gentleman to consider a point of public importance in connection with the question. [Interruption.] I want you to consider whether it is advisable to give the names of referees.

Mr. SPEAKER

We must allow the Minister to say that.

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Short)

The total number of medical referees appointed under the Act is 272, and the preparation of a statement giving their names and showing the number of cases referred to each would involve considerable labour, which my right hon. Friend, on the information before him, does not think would be justified. As regards the latter part of the question, he regrets that there are no records in the Home Office giving the information requested.

Mr. STEPHEN

Will my hon. Friend give me the names and the figures for Glasgow?

Mr. SHORT

I see no reason why that information should not be given.