§ Mr. WATTasked whether the employés of the Commissioners of the Crinan Canal, in Argyllshire, which is a Government-owned canal, will under the National Insurance Act be limited to an incapacitated allowance of 5s. per week on their retiral on account of old age, in view of the fact that they have been working on the understanding that half-wage would be paid them in such circumstances?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe workmen referred to will be entitled to 5s. a week disablement benefit if they are incapable of work under the ordinary conditions of the Act. This provision does not supersede an existing right to a pension of half-wages. I am informed that the workmen have hitherto been given half-wages during temporary illnesses, not as permanent allowances. Pensions for long service have been, and will be, considered on the individual merits of each case; and will not be discontinued in consequence of the Insurance Act.