The Second Reading debate on the Insurance Bill began in
the House of Commons on Wednesday. Mr. Buxton, in his opening speech, dealt principally with the part of the Bill concerned with unemployment. He maintained that the experiment, though bold, was not hazardous. On the one hand, the Bill would not disorganize the trade unions, for their organization and autonomy would not be affected ; and, on the other hand, it would be impossible for the masters' contributions to be used during strikes and lock- outs. Mr. H. W. Forster, on behalf of the Opposition, expressed a hope that the Bill would be read a second time without dissension. It was not a popular measure, perhaps, because it was not completely understood ; but the Govern- ment's opponents did not intend to make capital out of this fact, for they believed the measure would confer lasting benefits on the community. The principal criticisms of the Bill were made from the point of view of the medical profession, whom Sir Rufus Isaacs declared that the Chan- cellor of the Exchequer was prepared to meet in a firm, just, and equitable spirit. The debate was resumed on Thursday, when the speeches continued to be on the whole favourable to the Bill, the principal speakers being Mr. Churchill and Mr. Boner Law.
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