HC Deb 05 February 1951 vol 483 cc1317-8
7. Miss Irene Ward

asked the Minister of National Insurance if, in view of the fact that unemployment benefit is being withheld from persons dismissed from their employment for non-union membership, she will, in the interests of liberty, take steps to have this principle reversed.

Dr. Summerskill

I cannot, at present, add to the reply given to the Question by the hon. Member on this subject on 12th December last.

Miss Ward

Is the right hon. Lady aware that on that occasion she said that the matter was sub judice? The matter is no longer sub judice; therefore, does she not think the people who are not members of trades unions are entitled to the same protection as was given to the conscientious objector during the war?

Dr. Summerskill

Since that time, this matter has become the subject of appeal to the National Insurance Commissioner. It is, therefore, still sub judice and I am unable to make any comments at the moment.