§ 8. Mr. Bossomasked the Secretary of Slate for War whether he is aware that members of the Mechanised Transport Corps who give their services as drivers free to units of the Home Guard, are not insured from public funds against injury incurred in the performance of duty for the Home Guard; and whether he will arrange for them to be insured when on approved Home Guard duty?
§ Captain MargessonIt is not the practice to insure from public funds members of voluntary bodies which are not recognised by the War Office, such as the Mechanised Transport Corps. Motor mileage allowance, which includes an element for insurance, may, however, be claimed in respect of privately-owned vehicles driven by members of this organisation.
§ Mr. BossomEvery Government Department is taking advantage of these drivers, who are providing their services free. Does not my right hon. and gallant Friend think it appropriate that they should be insured by the Government?
§ Captain MargessonI understand that the case referred to is that of some American vehicles which were placed at 1186 the disposal of the Home Guard to be used mainly for transporting stores.
§ Mr. BossomIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that private people have to subscribe to provide this insurance? Is it not a thing for which the Government should provide?
§ Sir Herbert WilliamsIs my light hon. and gallant Friend aware that these ladies provide their own cars free, and that they are used entirely for transporting people on the Government's business, including a large number of officers of His Majesty's Army?