HC Deb 23 July 1953 vol 518 cc568-9
6. Mrs. Mann

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that potential labour is lost to employers due to insurance companies refusing to insure the over 40 age groups; and if he will institute an inquiry to discover how this obstacle can be overcome.

Sir W. Monckton

The effect of pension schemes on the employment of older persons is already under consideration by the National Advisory Committee on the Employment of Older Men and Women. which will shortly submit their First Report to me. The Report will be published in the autumn.

Mr. J. T. Price

Is not the assumption in this Question, that insurance companies can interfere in the contract of service, erroneous? The employer has a right to take on people who are over the age stipulated in insurance contracts and can exercise the right regardless of anything in the contract?

Sir W. Monckton

I think the hon. Member is under a misapprehension. There is difficulty in relation to employing older people because of the difficulties of pension schemes and I think the hon. Lady had that in mind in putting down the Question, if I do not misinterpret her.