HC Deb 24 July 1941 vol 373 cc1048-9
32. Mr. McGhee

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that increases in the cost of living reduce the amounts paid in partial compensation cases; and whether he will take legislative action to remedy this state of affairs?

Mr. H. Morrison

I presume that my hon. Friend is referring to the reduction in the weekly payments of compensation which may take place in cases where the earnings of a partially disabled workman have been increased by a cost of living bonus. The question of excluding such increases from the calculation of the weekly payment was raised and carefully examined at the time the Workmen's Compensation (Supplementary Allowances) Act of last year was being drafted, but it would have involved a wide departure from the principles of the Act for assessment of the compensation in such cases and given rise to serious practical difficulties. I regret therefore that I cannot promise any legislative action at present.

Mr. McGhee

Will the Minister reconsider this matter at an early date?

Mr. Morrison

We will keep the matter under consideration, but it should be borne in mind that the Minister without Portfolio is causing to be made a survey of the social services, including workmen's compensation. This survey may result in alteration of the scales of workmen's compensation benefit.

Mr. T. Smith

Is the Minister aware that reductions of compensation are causing a great deal of dissatisfaction among men who have gone back to the pits?

Mr. Morrison

I will keep that matter in mind.