HC Deb 24 November 1954 vol 533 cc1245-6
39. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why he has decided to postpone the introduction of a national insurance scheme in Cyprus.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The Cyprus Government have decided to postpone this scheme because, with the prospect of constitutional advance, it seemed better to wait until elected representatives of the people could consider the important questions of principle involved in social insurance legislation.

Mr. Swingler

Can the Minister say when it is likely that this scheme will be introduced? Is it not a fact that the scheme is now fully prepared and could be produced at any time? How long will the right hon. Gentleman wait before introducing this scheme, supposing that there is controversy about the constitution?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I hope that the hon. Member will use all his influence to get constitutional advance under way. This is essentially the sort of matter where the views of a representative body would be of very great importance.

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