HC Deb 23 July 1946 vol 425 cc2006-7

10.15 p.m.

Mr. Turton

I beg to move, in page 51, line 19, to leave out paragraph (g).

This Clause deals with superannuation benefits, and paragraph (g) reads: For making special provision for special classes of persons. These are rather extraordinary words to insert in an Act of Parliament. I can think of no other example where such wide discriminatory powers have been given to a Minister. Already, in Clause 65, paragraph (a), it is laid down that the Minister may make regulations giving different superannuation benefits to different persons and also providing for a recovery of contributions. In paragraph (i) he takes a wide discretion for determination of all questions arising under the regulations. In my submission, these words are quite unnecessary. That is a terminology that the Minister often uses in dealing with an Amendment, and I think the best way for inc is to move the Amendment in order that the Minister may give an explanation, and may be able to suggest some other form of words to meet any proviso he has.

Mr. Keeling (Twickenham)

I beg to second the Amendment.

Mr. Bevan

I admit that the powers are wide, but I think that hon. Members will agree, when I describe what they are, that they are necessary. There is a very large variety of circumstances existing in voluntary hospitals. There will be some people attached to the hospitals who will have superannuation rights. There will also be a large number of people who have reasonable expectation of superannuation rights, but who, nevertheless, have not contractual superannuation rights. It is intended to provide for people in those circumstances, and that is the reason why this language is used.

Mr. Turton

On that explanation, I beg to ask leave to withdraw the Amendment.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.