§ Mr. Houghton74, 75 and 76. asked the Minister of National Insurance (1) how many persons are now receiving extended unemployment benefit under the provisions of Section 62 of the National Insurance Act, 1946; and what action he proposes, to avoid hardship when
108W31st March, 1953, stating the number certified and totally incapacitated, partially incapacitated and the number of claims rejected during the same periods.
§ Mr. PeakeExaminations by the Pneumoconiosis Medical Panel operating from 64, Bridge Street, Manchester, in connection with claims under the Industrial Injuries Scheme, the Workmen's Compensation Schemes and the Pneumoconiosis and Byssinosis Benefit Scheme, 1952, were as follows:
these provisions run out on 5th July, 1953;
(2) what representations he has received from the General Council of the Trades Union Congress concerning the expiry of the Provisions of Section 62 of the National Insurance Act, 1946, on 5th July, 1953; and what reply he has given;
109W(3) what steps he intends to take to extend the provisions of Section 62 of the National Insurance Act, 1946, beyond 5th July, 1953.
§ Mr. PeakeAbout 48,000 people are in receipt of extended benefit. I explained the action being taken on the expiry of the existing statutory provisions in replies given on 9th February and 22nd May to Questions by the hon. Member for Pontypool (Mr. West) and the hon. Member for Hemel Hempstead (Viscountess Davidson), to which I would refer the hon. Member. I do not think I can add anything to what I said then.
82. Miss Leeasked the Minister of National Insurance what changes are contemplated in the rates of unemployment benefit or in the conditions qualifying for benefit.
§ Mr. PeakeNo changes in rates are in contemplation. I have recently made Regulations increasing the maximum periods of insurance benefit as from 5th July.