HC Deb 25 June 1940 vol 362 cc289-90
28. Mr. Gordon Macdonald

asked the Home Secretary the policy of the Government regarding legislation to amend the law relating to workmen's compensation?

Mr. Peake

The Government have given consideration to the question of proceeding with the further stages of the Workmen's Compensation Bill, which received a Second Reading on 30th April last, before the war entered upon its present phase and before the formation of the present Government. The Bill did not receive the general approval of the House, and many hon. Members voted in support of a reasoned Amendment. It is obviously most undesirable that there should be acute division, and possibly acrimonious debate, in relation to any Measure brought forward by the Government at the present time, and the Government have therefore made some inquiries with a view to estimating the prospects of arriving at some accommodation in the matter. Those preliminary inquiries have led them to the view that it would he desirable for the time being to suspend progress with the Bill pending the result of further discussions. The Bill was intended to come into operation on 1st July, and it is regretted that some disappointment must inevitably be caused as a result of this decision. The Government will, however, proceed at once to consult with the representatives of industry whose views were obtained before the present Bill was introduced, and will also be glad to receive informal representations coming from any quarter of the House.

Mr. Macdonald

In order that injured workmen will not be penalised, will the Government consider making the new Bill operate from 1st July?

Mr. Peake

I shall certainly do my best to secure speedy agreement, but it is very doubtful whether agreement can be secured and a Bill carried through all its stages by 1st July.

Mr. Macdonald

I agree that it will take time to get the Bill through, but is it not possible for its provisions to operate from 1st July, although it may be the end of July before it is through?

Mr. Peake

I think we had better discuss that point in the meetings which I have proposed in my answer.

Mr. T. Smith

Do I understand that, apart from the discussions with various interests, the hon. Gentleman will be willing to talk this matter over with Members of the House?

Mr. Peake

I am very anxious that that course should be followed.

Mr. Higgs

Will my hon. Friend consult with non-tariff companies and mutual insurance companies as well as the tariff companies before coming to any conclusion?

Mr. Peake

I will bear that point in mind.

Sir T. Moore

As it was the intention that this legislation should come into effect from 1st July, the proposed Bill cannot be given retrospective application?