HC Deb 04 February 1913 vol 47 cc1993-4
65. Mr. WHELER

asked whether insured persons suffering from tuberculosis can claim sanatorium treatment as a right; and, if not, what arrangements have been made for the treatment of those insured persons for whom doctors have stated that sanatorium treatment is absolutely necessary?

Mr. MASTERMAN

An insured person is entitled to such sanatorium benefit as the insurance committee recommends. The nature of the treatment is determined by the committee, acting on the advice of the tuberculosis officer or other consulting medical man.

Mr. WHELER

Is there not a large number of insured persons urgently in need of sanatorium treatment who have paid for it thinking they were going to get it?

Mr. MASTERMAN

If the hon. Gentleman can give me any case of people recommended for sanatorium benefit who have not received that benefit, I will have immediate inquiry made.

Sir H. CRAIK

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that I gave the President of the Local Government Board several cases?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am not aware of any insured man or woman who has been recommended for sanatorium benefit who is not receiving some sanatorium benefit.