HC Deb 04 June 1912 vol 39 cc10-1
13. Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

asked the Secretary to the Treasury (1) whether he will state how many registered friendly societies there are in England and Wales, and how many of these have as yet applied to be approved under the National Insurance Act; (2) if he will state the number of societies which have as yet become approved under the National Insurance Act; how many have applied for approval; what number of employed persons; and what proportion of the whole compulsorily insurable population do such applications represent; and (3) if he will say how many unregistered friendly societies and other benefit clubs in England and Wales have come to the knowledge of the Insurance Commissioners through the medium of ministers of religion or otherwise, and how many of these have as yet applied for approval under the National Insurance Act?

Mr. MASTERMAN

The number of registered friendly societies is 6,197. The number of unregistered societies, so far as ascertained from replies to the circular issued by the Commissioners and otherwise, is 2,198. I cannot give at present the number which have finally decided to seek separate approval. Some have lodged rules, others have expressed a definite intention of applying for approval, others have stated that they are considering the question. Many societies are amalgamating with other societies or affiliating as branches of existing organisations. This is particularly the case with rural societies, as central county societies and similar organisations are now being formed which may embrace many hundreds of such societies. I hope to issue before the end of this week a first list of societies which have been approved.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Can the hon. Gentleman state how many societies have actually applied for approval?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am afraid I cannot at the moment. Part of my answer is directed to that part of the question. It is difficult to know what exactly applying for approval means. It may have any range, from a notice that they are going to apply until the full lodging of the approval. Perhaps in a few days' time I can give more information.

Mr. C. BATHURST

What number of employed persons have applied?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I cannot answer at present. I shall be able to answer at the end of the week when the White Paper is issued.