HC Deb 02 May 1933 vol 277 cc667-8
38. Mr. MAINWARING

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he has taken to bring about among the South Wales coalowners a voluntary system of insurance whereby their liabilities in respect to injured workmen shall in all eventualities be secured; and if he is in a, position to state the extent to which the principle has been adopted?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir John Gilmour)

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Leigh (Mr. Tinker) on 6th April. As regards South Wales, it was reported last October that the articles of association of the Mutual Indemnity Association had been altered so as to enable the association to give cover for all classes of accidents, and that 90 per cent. of the collieries had made satisfactory arrangements. I have asked the Mining Association to obtain an up-to-date report showing progress made in South Wales and elsewhere.

Mr. MAINWARING

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to take some steps to compel the 10 per cent. to fall into line with the remainder?

Sir J. GILMOUR

I think that it is too early to come to a decision of that kind.