§ 36. Mr. S. O. Daviesasked the Secretary for Mines whether he has any information as to the progress made in the proposed pension scheme for elderly miners in the South Wales coalfield?
§ Captain CrookshankI understand that the proposed scheme has been prepared and agreed by the Joint Sub-committee appointed by the owners and workmen's representatives on the Conciliation Board, and that the committee are at present in communication with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health in regard to the effect of the proposed pension on public assistance grants. Pending a decision on this matter, the scheme has not yet been submitted to the individual colliery companies or to the individual al workmen for approval and confirmation.
§ Mr. DaviesMay I ask whether representations also have been made to his right hon. Friend the Minister for Labour that he should exercise his influence with the Unemployment Assistance Board not to apply the means test Regulations to any pensions that may be paid to elderly miners?
§ Captain CrookshankYes, I think they have, but, of course, questions can be addressed to the Minister.