HC Deb 22 November 1911 vol 31 c1182
Mr. MORTON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in a great many cases, the crofter, whose total income is estimated to not exceed 1s. 6d. per day, but who has no employer, will have to pay the whole of the contribution to the National Insurance fund; if not, where is the contribution to come from; and whether he is aware that the crofter cannot afford to find even 4d. a week?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

Crofters will not be compelled to insure; those who cannot afford to pay 7d. every week may yet gain the full benefit of all that they contribute, together with the State contribution of two-ninths of the cost of administration and benefits, if they join the deposit insurance; Sub-section (9) of Clause 58 gives the local health committees in Scotland power to vary the benefits which they will receive.

Mr. MORTON

May he vary the contribution?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

That question is covered by my answer. He can contribute a smaller amount.