HC Deb 27 May 1935 vol 302 cc750-1
25. Mr. T. SMITH

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that attendants at pit-head baths at certain collieries in Yorkshire have been informed that they are not now insurable for purposes of unemployment insurance although they have been paying contributions for more than three years; and whether he will make a statement on the position?

The MINISTER of LABOUR (Mr. Oliver Stanley)

I understand that the hon. Member refers to certain pit-head bath attendants at the Fryston Colliery, Castleford. My inquiries show that these men were wrongly regarded as insurable under the Unemployment Insurance Acts. Applications for the refund of the contributions paid in error will be considered as soon as they are received.

Mr. SMITH

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the House an assurance that this particular class of workmen will be brought under the Unemployment Insurance Acts; and, further, can he say how it comes about that contributions have been taken for three and a-half years and that men have been paid benefits when they have been out of work, but that they are now told that they are no longer insured?

Mr. STANLEY

As to the second part of the question, the position arises from a High Court decision. In regard to the first part of the question, as hon. Members know, this matter has been referred to the Statutory Committee, who are now considering it.

Mr. SMITH

May we expect an early decision?

Mr. STANLEY

The Committee have a great many matters of importance before them. I know they are giving a good deal of attention to this matter, but I could not say when they will be ready to report.

Mr. G. GRIFFITHS

Does not the Minister think that these men ought to be inside the unemployment insurance scheme?