HC Deb 11 May 1944 vol 399 cc2076-7
41. Mr. Ness Edwards

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the White Paper on Workmen's Compensation is yet completed; and if he can make any statement as to the date of its publication.

Mr. H. Morrison

I am unable at the moment to say when this White Paper will be published.

Mr. Ness Edwards

In view of the widespread feeling about this matter, and the anomalies arising out of recent legislation, can we have an assurance that there is no delay on the part of the Minister's Department?

Mr. Morrison

There will be no undue or improper delay about it. I cannot agree about the anomalies under the last Act, which I think was a very good Act and a very great advance. I wish my hon. Friend could claim credit for its passage.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Can the Minister say what procedure the Government will follow? Will there be a Debate on a White Paper before the proposals are introduced, or will the White Paper represent the final and crystallised conclusions of the Government?

Mr. Morrison

I should imagine that that question should be put to the Leader of the House, although I should think the White Paper will be of a similar character to the other White Papers of this kind.

Mr. Nicholson

May I take it from that answer that there will be a Debate, during which the Government's mind will remain open?

Mr. Morrison

That question should be put to the Leader of the House.