HC Deb 03 October 1939 vol 351 cc1821-2
81. Mr. Ridley

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has now made a request to the Royal Commission on Workmen's Compensation to produce an interim report dealing with the more urgent aspects of the question; and whether such a report is likely to be produced and at about what date?

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

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Member for Stoke (Mr. E. Smith) on 14th September, to which my right hon. Friend cannot add anything at present.

Mr. Ridley

Is the hon. Member aware that what may be regarded as the normal urgency of this question is being quickened by war considerations and the increase in the cost of living? Is he further aware that the request for an interim report expresses the view of the overwhelming majority of the Members of this House?

Mr. Peake

My right hon. Friend is most anxious that this important inquiry should proceed, but at the same time there are great physical and other difficulties about carrying on with a Commission of 16 Members under present conditions.

Mr. Buchanan

Is the hon. Member aware that a Commission previously reported in favour of increased payments, and in view of the increased cost of living will the Government, while awaiting this report, bring in an interim measure to implement the report of the previous Commission?

Mr. Peake

We shall, of course, keep a careful watch on the question of the cost of living.