§ 40. Mr. W. THORNEasked whether postmasters are advising applicants for health insurance cards for the second quarter to join the Prudential Society; and if it is intended to take action in the matter?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELI am not aware of any such cases; but if the hon. Member will furnish me with particulars I shall be happy to make inquiry.
§ 42. Mr. W. THORNEasked whether any Grant has been made to any collecting, friendly, or trade union approved society under the National Insurance Act (Part I.)?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI presume that the hon. Member refers to advances out of the National Health Insurance Fund. Advances of cash to meet current expenses have been made to a number of approved societies of the several types mentioned, and information as to the amounts available and the method of making application for advances is being sent to all societies.
43. Mr. CATHCART WASONasked if a number of insurance committees find it impossible to defray the bare traveling expenses of their members with the funds at their disposal; and if the Financial Secretary to the Treasury can state what action he intends to take?
§ Mr. MASTERMANWhile the amounts available for travelling expenses appear in general to be sufficient, I understand that in certain districts in Scotland the amount available under the Act may prove inadequate. The Scottish Commissioners are now specially considering the case of the less populous districts, which present the greatest difficulty.