§ 32. Mr. ESSEXasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether agents of certain societies, in canvassing for members for the purposes of national health insurance, are stating that they are sent by the Government and that forms of application for membership must be signed under penalty of a £10 fine; and whether he proposes to take any action to prevent action of this kind?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI have been informed that allegations similar to those referred to have been made in the Press. I have communicated with the officials of the approved societies and companies who have collectors and agents, and they assure me that if any of their servants are proved to have adopted such methods of canvassing for members they will be summarily dismissed. If anyone thinks he has evidence of such action, I should be glad if he will communicate it to the Insurance Commissioners.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTIs it permissible for these various organisations to stamp the Government leaflets and Government regulations with the name of their own particular organisation, thereby implying some special recognition by the Government of that particular society?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI was not aware of the practice. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will give me a little time to think over it.