19. Mr. WORTHINGTON - EVANSasked what is the estimated number of schemes required to be prepared by friendly societies and branches under Section 72 of the National Insurance Act, and what is the estimated total cost of such schemes; and on what principle is it proposed to apportion the £47,000 Grant-in-Aid referred to in the Supplementary Estimates, Class 8, Vote 8, among such societies and branches?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe number of schemes estimated to be required for the purpose of Section 72 of the National Insurance Act is upwards of 26,000. Some societies, however, are expected to submit schemes for continuing the present benefits and contributions, in which case no valuation is necessary. The total cost of such schemes to the societies will depend on the arrangement between each society and the actuary whom it employs. Societies claiming to participate in the Grant will be allowed to submit particulars under this head at any time up to 30th November next. The Grant will not exceed one guinea for each valuation, plus 1625 one penny for each member included on 16th December, 1911, being then of the age of sixteen years or upwards, and contributing for benefits similar to any of those conferred by Part I. of the Act.