HC Deb 30 May 1935 vol 302 c1305
54. Mr. THORNE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will appoint a committee to inquire into the causes of a number of insurance companies going into liquidation and not being able to meet their liabilities; whether his attention has been drawn to the case arising out of a motor accident in which the defendant was insured with the London General Insurance Company, who have gone into liquidation; whether he is aware that the defendant has been called upon to meet the damages and costs, which exceed £1,000, and has been ordered by the court to pay one-third of his salary so long as he is in employment until the debt is cleared; whether he has seen the remarks made by Mr. Justice Clausen about the case; and what action he intends taking in the matter?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

My right hon. Friend has seen a report of the case to which the hon. Member refers and I can assure him that earnest consideration is being given to the questions arising from the failure of these companies.

Mr. THORNE

Has there been any consultation with the Law Officers of the Crown with a view to seeing whether they can deal with these matters, and also look into the position of any other company?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

I understand that the question is being examined in every aspect.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Why did not one company take all these others over, instead of allowing all these rubbishy companies to get hold?