HC Deb 06 June 1912 vol 39 c292
69. Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

asked what was the total number of societies which had been in communication with the National Insurance Health Commissioners with a view to their becoming approved or with a view to their obtaining information prior to their deciding to become approved; and what proportion of the total working population did these societies represent?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am quite unable to give any numbers of all societies which have communicated in any way with the Commissioners with a view to obtaining information prior to deciding to apply for approval, as it would involve examination of some thousands of letters and reference to some hundreds of interviews. A first list of societies actually approved will be issued to-morrow, and further lists from time to time, as they are ready.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Can the hon. Gentleman give the House any indication of the proportion of the working population of the country that are likely to drift into the position of deposit contributors?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I think it would be perfectly premature to make any statement as to that. From all the indications I can see I think there will be very few indeed. We shall not know really how many until next October.