HC Deb 23 May 1938 vol 336 cc859-60
78. Mr. Whiteley

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the growing dissatisfaction as to rates of compensation paid to those injured or killed in industry; whether he is prepared to find time for the introduction and passage of a new Workmen's Compensation Bill giving a more adequate compensation, and thus obviate their reliance on charitable funds raised by the public for this purpose?

Mr. Lloyd

My right hon. Friend regrets that he cannot at present add anything to his previous statements on this subject.

Mr. Whiteley

Will the hon. Member convey to his right hon. Friend the fact that there is a growing feeling in the public mind that compensation rates are not sufficient to meet the needs of widows, dependants, and those who are injured, and will he reconsider the whole position and agree to an increase in order that the dependants of these people may live in decency?

Sir A. Wilson

Will the hon. Gentleman also bear in mind that three out of four of those in receipt of weekly payments under workmen's compensation are at present dependent upon the Poor Law for additional help?

Mr. T. Smith

Is the Minister aware that the view is widely held that the fact that injured workmen in receipt of compensation have to seek assistance from the Poor Law is a positive scandal and that the delay in dealing with this situation does not reflect credit upon the Home Office?