§ 47. Mr. Manderasked the Minister without Portfolio whether, under the Government's Beveridge Plan proposals, industrial assurance approved societies are to be placed in the same position as friendly societies approved societies in the distribution of sickness benefit?
§ Sir W. JowittThe question whether, and subject to what conditions, various types of existing approved societies might be allowed to act as agents in the administration of disability benefit is receiving consideration, but I am not yet in a position to add anything to the statement on this matter made by my right hon. Friend the Lord President of the Council in the course of the recent Debate on Sir William Beveridge's proposals.
§ Mr. ManderCannot my right hon. and learned Friend say whether the Government have decided to accept the Beveridge plan proposals in this matter or not?
§ Sir W. JowittI have already said that no final conclusion has been come to.
§ Mr. BuchananIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that there are wide variations of benefit and that those who need it most are receiving least, and will he take some steps in the interval, while approved societies may remain, to see that the poorest people get benefits equal to those who are more well to do?
§ Sir W. JowittThat is certainly a relevant consideration.
§ Mr. Rhys DaviesWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman bear in mind in considering this problem that industrial insurance companies have never paid sickness benefit like the approved societies?
§ Earl WintertonIn view of the great interest taken in this subject in the country, can the right hon. and learned Gentleman indicate when the period of gestation in his mind will come to an end and when it will be possible to make some announcement?
§ Sir W. JowittNo, Sir, I cannot at present give any date.
§ Mr. ShinwellCan we be assured that when the period of gestation is over it may be twins?