HC Deb 15 October 1940 vol 365 cc579-81
22. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, since many members of the Home Guard have been asked by their insurance companies to pay 5 per cent. increase or more for their insurances, he will convene a conference of authorised representatives of all insurance companies throughout the country for the purpose of obtaining a ruling which will be universally adopted by them all to exclude and delete the naval and military clauses which are embodied in many of these policies, so as to ensure that members of the Home Guard are not penalised as a result of their patriotic endeavours to assist the country?

15. Mr. Culverwell

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that certain insurance companies are demanding an additional premium from life insurance policy holders to guarantee payment in cases of insured persons who are members of the Home Guard; whether he is further aware that this has led to resignations from the Home Guard; and what action he proposes taking to remedy this situation?

Sir E. Grigg

The importance of this subject to the Home Guard is fully recognised, and I am arranging for an early conference between the various Government Departments which are interested in it.

Mr. De la Bère

Will my hon. Friend really tackle the insurance companies? Is he not aware that it is no use the insurance companies saying that they are actually prepared to go outside their contracts in their desire to be generous? The situation about the Home Guards' life insurance is confused and unsatisfactory. It should be made quite clear to the insurance companies that they need not fear the unknown future if they do the right thing now.

Sir E. Grigg

I can assure my hon. Friend that that matter is having attention.

Mr. Pethick-Lawrence

When this matter is considered will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that a man may fall between two stools? On account of the nature of the injury he may not get Government compensation, and he may be shut out from insurance because he is a member of the Forces in some shape or form.

Sir E. Grigg

Yes, Sir.

24. Sir Herbert Williams

asked the Secretary of State for War whether it is proposed to issue serge battle-dress to members of the Home Guard for the purpose of winter duty?

31. Major Milner

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now in a position to make the promised statement on questions relating to the Home Guard?

Sir E. Grigg

I regret that I am not in a position to make the statement which my right hon. Friend promised upon various matters relating to the Home Guard. The statement will be made very shortly, and will deal with the question of battle-dress amongst others.