§ Mr. MUNRO - FERGUSONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether seamen not domiciled or having a place of residence in the United Kingdom are not deemed to be employed within the meaning of the health provisions of the National Insurance Act; whether the shipowner is nevertheless called upon to contribute in respect of such seamen, such contributions becoming available for the purpose of securing additional benefits in the shape of pensions or otherwise to British seamen; whether he is aware that foreign seamen without a British domicile or place of residence in the United Kingdom are being induced to give fictitious addresses in this country for their contribution cards; whether the effect of bringing such seamen under the operation of the Act will be to diminish the funds intended by the Act to be available for the provision of additional benefits for British seamen; and what steps he proposes to take to put an end to this practice?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe effect of the Act is as stated in the question. I have no information with regard to the practice described by my right hon. Friend, but if 2499W any specific cases can be brought to my notice I will have them inquired into with a view to putting a stop to such irregularities.