§ 6. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of National Insurance how many industrial accidents took place in 1951; how much was paid in benefits under the Industrial Injuries Act; and what was the average period of disability.
§ Mr. PeakeI regret that I cannot supply the full details asked for by the hon. Member. The following is the available information
During 1951 approximately 770,000 new claims to injury benefit were received, the great majority being in respect of accidents.During the financial year ended 31st March, 1951 (the period covered by the last published accounts) just under £14¼ million was paid in benefits under the Industrial Injuries Act, of which about £8¾ million was injury benefit, £5 million disablement benefit, and £360,000 death benefit.The latest available information regarding average duration of disability is that in 1949 and 1950 the average period of incapacity for which injury benefit was paid was just over four weeks.
§ 8. Mr. T. Priceasked the Minister of National Insurance if he is aware of the growing dissatisfaction with the administration of the Industrial Injuries Act, as it affects assessment of disablement arising from industrial dermatitis; and if he will take steps to remedy this.