§ Sir HARRY SAMUELasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that it is anticipated that the opera- 1505 tion of the National Insurance Bill will have an important bearing upon, the number of persons who now seek medical and other relief, and that consequently a lesser number of relieving officers and other Poor Law officials will be required; and whether it is the intention of the Government to insert clauses in the Bill to provide compensation for officers whose interests may be affected, in such manner as was provided in Section 120 of the Local Government Act, 1888, and Section 28 of the City of London (Union of Parishes) Act, 1907?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Hobhouse)I am glad the hon. Member realises that the ultimate effect of the Bill will be an important relief to the ratepayer. But this effect will, of course, be gradual, and, having regard to the normal growth of population and of the standard of care for paupers, it is not anticipated that such reduction of establishments as takes place will outstrip the regular wastage through death and superannuation among the officers employed.