§ 55. Mr. TINKERasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the increasing number of cases that are taken to hospitals for treatment where the accident comes under the Workmen's Compensation Act; and whether he will consider amending the Act so as to provide that the cost of such treatment and the conveyance to and from the hospital shall be made a compulsory charge on the employer?
Captain CROOKSHANKMy right hon. Friend is not aware of any such increase. Proposals were considered some years ago, in correspondence with the British Hospitals Association, for requiring employers to pay for the cost of hospital treatment in Workmen's Compensation cases. On examination, however, it appeared that they would involve great practical difficulties and that there were other considerations to be taken into account, including the possible effect on the employers' voluntary subscriptions to the hospitals; and my right hon. Friend does not think this question could usefully be taken up again except in connection with a general review of the Acts.
§ Mr. TINKERWhen there is such a review, will this point be taken into consideration?
Captain CROOKSHANKA great many things will fall to be considered then, and I have no doubt that this will be one of them.
§ Mr. WHITESIDEAre not the expenses already assessed in computing the amount of compensation to be given?