HC Deb 14 June 1917 vol 94 cc1161-2W
Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the number of insurance policies held by the poorer classes that have been permitted to lapse, and that this, while being a loss to the policy holders, has been a source of profit to insurance companies; and whether, in view of the fact that this condition of affairs is directly attributable to the exigencies of military service, he will consider the advisability of introducing some legislative measure to ensure equity in this matter?

Mr. ROBERTS

The Prime Minister has asked me to answer this question. I would refer the hon. Member to the provisions of the Courts (Emergency Powers) Act, 1914, which prevent the lapsing of industrial life insurance policies for amounts not exceeding £25 on which the premiums have been paid for two years before the 4th August, 1914, without an application to the Court.