HC Deb 02 May 1966 vol 727 cc1212-3
9. Sir C. Osborne

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance if she is aware that a Cleethorpes charlady, who works 12 hours a week, and for whom a stamp of 11s. 10d. per week has been paid for years by her employer, was recently taken ill and was told she could not claim sickness benefit; if she will look at this type of case and consider what alterations can be made to the regulations to enable either the injured to claim sickness benefit, or the employer to pay less for his weekly stamp; and if she will make a statement.

Mr. Pentland

I am aware of this case. I see no reason why married women who opt out of paying contributions should expect to receive the benefits which flow from them. No proposal to reduce the employer's contribution for part-time workers has in the past been found which would not be either undesirable in the interests of the insured population in general, or unworkable. But the problem is being borne in mind in the current general review of the social security arrangements.

Sir C. Osborne

I am much obliged for that consideration, but does not the Parliamentary Secretary think it unfair to the employer to make him pay 11s. 4d. a week to cover a risk which he could get covered outside for l0s a year? Is it not unfortunate to drive these part-time women workers on to Public Assistance when they are able to do a little part-time work?

Mr. Pentland

We are aware of the problem, of course; the contributory system and everything else will be carefully considered in the major review.

Mr. O'Malley

Has there been at any time an inquiry in my hon. Friend's Department to establish whether the necessity of paying the National Insurance contribution—which can be up to a quarter of the wage paid—discourages potential employers from offering employment, with particular reference to areas where there is a lack of employment prospects for women both on a full-time and a part-time basis?

Mr. Pentland

I should need to have notice of that specific question, but I can assure my hon. Friend that all such aspects are being investigated in the major review.