HC Deb 01 August 1935 vol 304 cc2833-7
13. Mr. GODFREY NICHOLSON

asked the Home Secretary the terms of reference and the name of the chairman of the committee which he proposes to appoint to inquire into the operation of the Workmen's Compensation Act in relation to workmen affected by miner's nystagmus?

Sir J. SIMON

I propose to circulate the terms of reference, which are somewhat long, in the OFFICIAL REPORT. Briefly, the matters on which the Committee will be invited to report are the operation of the Act in relation to miner's nystagmus; the position of the medical referees under the Act, and the arrangements generally for dealing with medical issues; and certain important questions arising in connection with the settlement of claims by payment of lump sums. I am glad to state that his Honour Judge Stewart has consented to act as Chairman of the Committee.

Mr. NICHOLSON

Will the Committee be generally empowered to recommend alterations in the law regarding all partially disabled miners, whether they are disabled by reason of nystagmus or from other causes?

Sir J. SIMON

I would ask my hon. Friend to await the publication of the terms of reference, which he will see in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. T. SMITH

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that the Committee will sit forthwith?

Sir J. SIMON

I am sure, from my knowledge of the chairman, that he will not allow any unnecessary delay to occur.

Mr. G. GRIFFITHS

Will the right hon. Gentleman bring to the notice of the Committee the case of a person who has had nystagmus, and who is stated by a medical man to have been completely cured, but who cannot get a job again because he has had nystagmus, being branded for life, like Cain?

Sir J. SIMON

I know that that is one of the difficulties under the existing law, and I think my hon. Friend will find that the terms of reference will cover inquiries of that nature.

Following are the Terms of Reference:

    cc2834-5
  1. TERMS OF REFERENCE TO WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION COMMITTEE. 333 words
    2. cc2835-6
  2. SUMMARY COURTS (SOCIAL SERVICES). 235 words
    3. cc2836-7
  3. AIR RAID PRECAUTIONS. 318 words
    4. c2837
  4. FATAL ACCIDENT, BARKING. 100 words