§ 30. Mr. E. J. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that certain employés of the District Bank, Manchester, are paying voluntary contributions to the National Widows', Orphans', and Old Age Pensions scheme, but that the bank are preventing this and retaining these voluntary contributions in their own bank pensions fund; and will he intervene to prevent these persons being prevented from obtaining the benefits of the State pensions scheme?
§ Sir K. WOODThe matter has not previously been brought to my notice. If the hon. Member will inform me of the names and addresses of employés concerned, I will have inquiry made and communicate with him when I have received a report.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSWill the Minister also inquire whether the District Bank in this connection is not creating a precedent which does not apply to other banking institutions of this country or even, to the Civil Service?
§ Sir K. WOODPerhaps the hon. Member would send me a full statement of the case and I will inquire into it.
§ Mr. RHYS DAVIESIf the right hon. Gentleman finds that this allegation. is well-founded, will be make it clear to the bank that this is a violation of the Act of Parliament?
§ Sir K. WOODI think I had better ascertain the facts first.