§ Sir J. D. REESasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what action the Government proposes to take to remove or relieve the hardships suffered by middlewomen and outworkers in the Nottingham lace trade, owing to the compulsory collection of the insurance tax from the former as employers, under a ruling of the Insurance Commissioners, and from the latter as employés, under the provisions of the National Insurance Act?
Mr. BENNThe Insurance Commissioners have throughout been careful594W to avoid harsh or oppressive action, but they must secure general compliance with the requirements of the law. If the hon. Member holds the view that the firms which give out the work and not the middlewomen should be regarded as the employers of the outworkers, my right hon. Friend would be glad to have an opportunity of considering his reasons.