HC Deb 09 November 1953 vol 520 cc595-6
44. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether he is aware of the concern that has been caused in Leicester and elsewhere by the survey being conducted by the National Insurance Advisory Committee into employers' schemes for paying benefits to their employees when sick; and the purpose of this survey.

Mr. Peake

I am not aware of any general concern about this inquiry. Most employers who have been approached have readily co-operated in it. Information regarding the extent and nature of sick pay arrangements is needed in connection with a review of the provisions governing the payment of benefit for short spells of sickness which the National Insurance Advisory Committee are making at my request.

Mr. Janner

Is the Minister aware that one firm, at least, has replied stating that it is concerned about the whittling down of any insurance benefits that the employees whom they are supporting during sickness receive? Will the right hon. Gentleman say that there is no intention whatever of interfering with the amounts at present being paid to those who become sick?

Mr. Peake

The only purpose of the inquiry is to obtain information regarding the extent of sick pay schemes. No employer is compelled to furnish the evidence and there is no breach of confidence involved in giving us the information for which we have asked.

Mr. Janner

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that notification has been given to a firm in Leicester that this information is required for the purpose, among others, of amending the Act? In what respect does the Minister propose to amend the Act? Will he see that the benefits to those who receive pay from their employers also will not be affected?

Mr. Peake

The Committee are conducting this inquiry at my request because the conditions governing the receipt of sickness benefit are extremely technical and, to some extent, out of date. There may be a case for some modernisation of the rules.

Mr. Janner

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I give notice that I shall raise this matter again.