HC Deb 06 May 1963 vol 677 c12W
64. Mr. Prentice

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will consider the introduction of legislation to compel employers to insure against liability for damages arising out of accidents suffered by their employees; and whether his attention has been drawn to the recent comments of Mr. Justice Sachs on this matter in the recent case of Coutts v. G. T. Gidley, Limited.

Mr. Whitelaw

My right hon. Friend has noted the comments of Mr. Justice Sachs but considers that legislation to require compulsory insurance would not be justified. The evidence available to our Department suggests that very few employees injured at work are unable to obtain proper damages because the employer was not insured. The necessary legislation would be complex and difficult to enforce, particularly in the case of small firms with little financial backing.