HC Deb 16 November 1948 vol 458 cc195-6
32. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of National Insurance what steps he is taking to give a clear explanation to companies with regard to the stamping of their directors' insurance cards, in view of the fact that some directors are classified as employed persons and others as self-employed persons.

Mr. J. Griffiths

The question whether, in any particular case, a director of a company is an employed or self-employed person for the purposes of the National Insurance Act can be determined only by reference to the conditions under which he works for the company. An explanatory leaflet (N.I.35) dealing with the position of directors is available at the local offices of the Ministry, and in cases of doubt the Ministry is always prepared to advise if full information is furnished.

Mr. Janner

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in Leicester and other places considerable confusion has arisen owing to the inability of people fully to understand that leaflet; and will he take some step to issue a much clearer statement so that people will know what their position is?

Mr. Griffiths

We have sought to make what is a very difficult matter—whether a person is or is not under a contract of service, which is a legal term—as plain as laymen can do.