HC Deb 15 March 1938 vol 333 cc204-5
42. Mr. W. Joseph Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that large numbers of persons injured during their employment and persons suffering from industrial disease are in receipt of compensation and subject to Poor Law relief; and will he take steps at an early date to amend the Compensation Acts so as to provide for the payment of amounts by way of compensation to meet the requirements of the persons involved and to obviate the necessity of their having to seek public assistance to supplement their compensation?

The Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Lloyd)

This proposal would involve a radical alteration of the Workmen's Compensation Acts, and I am afraid my right hon. Friend cannot make any statement as to legislation for that purpose.

Mr. Stewart

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there are large numbers of injured workmen enduring great hardship owing to the smallness of the amount obtained by way of compensation; and will his Department seek at an early date to introduce a Measure to give these people financial security without their having to apply to the Poor Law authorities?

Mr. Lloyd

I am afraid that I cannot add to the answer.

Mr. G. Griffiths

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there are thousands of men who, in the first week in which they are put off, have to apply for Poor Law relief in order to get something to eat?

Mr. Lawson

Is the Home Office never going to do anything for these men?