HC Deb 03 February 1965 vol 705 c1071
25. Mr. Derek Page

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he intends to introduce legislation to empower the Agricultural Wages Board to introduce a sickness benefit scheme for agricultural workers.

Mr. John Mackie

This matter is under consideration but I am not yet able to make a statement.

Mr. Page

Does my hon. Friend agree that farm workers have a right to expect a sickness benefit scheme? Is he aware that they are looking to him for the very earliest action in this respect?

Mr. Mackie

Yes, I am perfectly aware of that. We made this pledge during the election and we have every intention of carrying it out.

Mr. Prior

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this pledge was made, well in advance of the election, by the Chief Secretary as long ago as last Whitsun? Has not the time come to implement it?