HC Deb 14 November 1961 vol 649 cc182-3
28. Mr. J. Hill

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will amend the regulations governing the compensation payable for loss of remunerative time to persons attending official appeal tribunals in order to provide amounts more closely related to average earnings in industry.

Sir E. Boyle

I do not think it would be appropriate at the present time to authorise an increase in the maximum allowance which may be paid for loss of earnings in these cases.

Mr. Hill

As we have been told so often about high dividends and earnings, is it not time that something was done to bring this allowance into line?

Sir E. Boyle

The point is that the allowance is intended not to replace lost wages in full in all cases but to relieve hardship, and an increase at the present time would not be consistent with the Government's general measures for dealing with our economic difficulties.

Mr. Hill

The allowance is not designed to relieve hardships but is for loss of a day's work for these people.

Sir E. Boyle

The hon. Gentleman is mistaken. The doctrine I have just stated is correct.