HC Deb 06 December 1951 vol 494 cc2547-8
30. Mr. R. Harris

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that industrial injury benefits provide inadequate compensation for members of the Auxiliary Fire Service injured while undergoing training; and if he will introduce legislation to provide an adequate pension in such circumstances.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I understand that my hon. Friend is mainly concerned with a sick pay scheme to deal with temporary loss of earnings in the normal occupation. I have received representations on this subject which I am considering in consultation with those of my colleagues who are also concerned.

Mr. Harris

Would the Home Secretary bear in mind that there is at the moment an Auxiliary fireman who in a civil job was earning about £9 a week and is now reduced to about £3 a week industrial injury pay? If my right hon. and learned Friend is able to do anything, will he make it as retrospective as possible?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

Certainly, I will take what my hon. Friend says into account.