§ Mr. JENKINSasked the Home Secretary what number of colliery companies became bankrupt in the South Wales coalfield each year from 1921 to date; what number had not insured their workmen against accidents; can he give the date of winding up and the date when the workmen received their compensation, and what amount in the £ was paid; the amount paid to the receiver during the period he was in possession; and what steps will he take to make it compulsory for the employers to insure their workmen against accidents?
§ Mr. SHORTMy right hon. Friend regrets that he has no information for the period previous to 1927. Inquiries show that nine colliery companies in South Wales went into liquidation in 1927, 33 in 1928, 14 in 1929 and six during the present year, making 62 in all. Of these, so far as has been ascertained, eight had not insured at all, and 14 had insured 1823W only against part of the risks. The other particulars asked for are not available, but I may say that at three collieries there was a permanent loss of compensation amounting in the aggregate to nearly £14,000. There are also other cases where the final settlement has not yet taken place. The situation is undoubtedly grave, but it can only be remedied by legislation which would necessarily be of a far-reaching character. The Government have the matter under serious consideration, but my right hon. Friend is not in a position at present to make any statement.