§ 9. Mr. PALING (for Mr. T. VVILLIAMS)asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the effect of under-employment on the compensation received by injured persons; and whether he has considered the possibility of amending the Compensation Act so that justice may be done to affected persons?
§ Sir J. GILMOURUnder the present Act the amount of compensation depends, broadly speaking, on the particular workman's earning capacity, and while I appreciate the hon. Member's object, I do not see, as at present advised, how it could be achieved without a radical departure from this principle. I shall be prepared to consider any representations, but no legislation on this point could be undertaken except after the fullest inquiry.
§ Mr. GEOFFREY PETODoes not the compensation depend on earning capacity and on the amount of employment in the last 12 months, and is not that rather unfair?
§ Mr. T. SMITHIs the right hon. Gentleman prepared to meet a deputation on the matter?
§ Sir J. GILMOURCertainly.