§ 20. Mr. D. GRENFELLasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the delay in the certification of men disabled by silicosis and of the loss of compensation consequent upon the lapse of time between the date of disablement and the date of examination and certification by the medical board; and whether he will take steps to authorise the certification to date from the suspension from work or the date of disablement of the workman
Mr. STANLEYMy right hon. Friend is not aware of any unreasonable delay, but an appreciable time must frequently elapse between the receipt of an application for a certificate and the issue of the certificate. Further particulars may have to be obtained from the applicant, the employer is entitled to notice of the application and to submit statements within 10 days, and a radiological examination as well as a clinicial examination may have to be made. But the hon. 985 Member appears to be under a misapprehension as to the date from which the certificate takes effect. The board have full power to certify that the disablement commenced on a date earlier than the date of issue of the certificate, and my right hon. Friend is informed that this power is freely exercised.
§ Mr. GRENFELLWill the hon. Gentleman take note of the fact that in practice that is not done, and people have been deprived of six months' compensation.
Mr. STANLEYThat is quite contrary to the information that I have from the Department. If the hon. Member has any particular cases to bring to my attention, I shall be only too pleased to consider them.