HC Deb 28 May 1940 vol 361 cc409-10
44. Mr. Tinker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has given consideration to the resolution sent to him by Atherton Trades and Labour Council asking for the Workmen's Compensation (Supplementary Allowance) Bill to be amended so as to include a flat-rate increase in payment of weekly compensation for all cases of injured workers; and what answer he has returned thereto?

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

I have received the resolution in question. This resolution and other representations are receiving consideration.

Mr. Tinker

Is the Under-Secretary aware of the widespread feeling that something more should be done to supplement the compensation, and will the Government give consideration to a flat-rate increase at an early date?

Mr. Peake

The Government are most anxious to have the views of all their supporters in every quarter of the House on this matter, but I would point out to the hon. Member that the resolution to which he has referred in his Question asks the Government to undertake something which, in my view, would be outside the scope of the Bill.

Mr. Tinker

May I ask whether consideration will be given to that resolution and some proposition made to the House later on?

Mr. Peake

I hope that my right hon. Friend will be in a position to make a statement at a very early date.

Mr. George Griffiths

Does the Minister know that there is great dissatisfaction with the present Bill and that we want an alteration now that we have a National Government?