HC Deb 17 March 1936 vol 310 cc207-8
17. Mr. STEPHEN

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that unemployed people are being deprived of their pension rights through the action of approved societies in terminating their membership without giving adequate notice; and whether he will consider making it obligatory upon societies to send such notices by registered post and in such terms as will make plain to members the means by which their membership can be retained during their periods of unemployment?

Sir G. COLLINS

I am not aware that the position is as suggested by the hon. Member, but if he will send to me any cases of hardship, I will have them investigated and communicate the result to him. In most cases all that an unemployed person requires to do in order to maintain his pension rights is to have his health insurance cards franked at the Employment Exchange and to surrender them regularly to his approved society. The contribution cards themselves contain instructions regarding their franking and surrender, and these instructions are generally observed. As a further step towards ensuring that the approved societies' notification is adequate, arrangements are being made to supply societies with a standard form of letter for the purpose. It is not considered necessary to recommend that the letters should be sent by registered post.

Mr. STEPHEN

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that, with regard to the pension cases sent to him, the trouble arose from the fact that they had not got intimations from their approved societies, and that would be covered by registration?

Sir G. COLLINS

I have heard of such complaints. How numerous they are I do not know. If the hon. Member will draw my attention to specific cases, I will gladly make inquiries.

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