HC Deb 20 December 1945 vol 417 cc1518-9
27. Flying-Officer Bowden

asked the Minister of National Insurance if he will agree to absorb any staff of local authorities' public assistance departments that may be made redundant as a result of the passing of the proposed social insurance scheme.

28. Squadron-Leader Emrys Roberts

asked the Minister of National Insurance to what extent relieving officers will be affected by the proposed National Insurance Bill; and whether he will ensure that relieving officers who may be displaced or made redundant by its proposals will be employed by hisDepartment in the administration of national insurance.

The Minister of National Insurance (Mr. James Griffiths)

I cannot add to the reply given to the hon. Member for South Sal-ford (Mr. Hardy) by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, on 15th November, last.

Mr. Percy Morris

Can my right hon. Friend say whether the proposed National Insurance Bill will contain provisions for the compensation of any displaced staff? If not, why not?

Mr. Griffiths

I cannot anticipate the provisions of the Bill, but early this week I received a deputation from the trades unions representing the staffs affected by this particular question and I informed them that I would see them later on, when the import of our new scheme will be more clearly seen.

Squadron-Leader Roberts: Will the Minister inform the House that he will receive a deputation on behalf of the relieving officers?

Mr. Griffiths

The deputation concerned was on their behalf.