§ Mr. SpeakerDame Irene Ward, whom we are all pleased to see in her place, to ask Question No. 22.
§ 22. Dame Irene Wardasked the Minister of Social Security whether she will consider introducing special insurance provisions for part-time workers.
§ Miss HerbisonMr. Speaker, I think that you have expressed the pleasure of everyone on this side of the House at seeing the hon. Lady back in her place. I hope that she has fully recovered.
The Answer to the hon. Lady's question is that the position of part-time workers will be considered in the course of the review of social security provisions.
§ Dame Irene WardMr. Speaker, I thank both you and the right hon. Lady for your kindness.
May I ask the right hon. Lady whether she has seen the document issued by the National Council of Social Service, with all its wide support throughout the country? As this is now a matter of urgency, in view of the variety of thinking in the country, may I ask whether the Minister is having consultations with the appropriate Ministers, such as the Minister of Labour and the Treasury Ministers, with regard to this matter?
§ Miss HerbisonI have seen the document referred to by the hon. Lady. This whole problem involves many Ministers, and I assure the hon. Lady that consideration is given jointly to such matters.