40. Mr. F. HALLasked the right hon. Gentleman whether the decision as to what insured persons are to be allowed to make their own arrangements for medical attendance and treatment is one for the sole discretion of the insurance committees; if so, will he explain why he promised to a deputation from the People's League of Medical Freedom that the Government would make every endeavour to secure that permission was granted to those who do not believe in the orthodox system of medicine and desire the services of herbalists and other unqualified persons; and whether he will use his authority to ensure that permission to make their own arrangements is granted to those who have been unable to obtain the doctor of their choice because he refuses to go on the panel, a condition with which unqualified persons are not asked to comply?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe hon. Member has been misinformed. I distinctly stated at the deputation referred to that, for reasons which I have explained on numerous occasions in the House, insurance committees could not be deprived of the discretion which is given them by the Act in regard to this matter. I promised, however, that the Government would endeavour to secure that insured persons who had conscientious objections to orthodox systems of medicine and were willing to make an assertion that they 1035 wished for some other form of treatment, should be given the money which otherwise would have been available for their medical benefit.
Mr. F. HALLWill the same benefits be given to those insured persons desirous of appointing their own doctors who are not on the panel?
§ Mr. MASTERMANAny insurance committee can do that to-morrow if they like.
§ Mr. MASTERMANCertainly. Any insurance committee that chooses can authorise an insured person to deal with a doctor who is not on the panel.