39. Mr. F. HALLasked if the Welsh Insurance Commissioners have placed restrictions on the holding of branch meetings of approved societies on licensed premises; if such a rule is enforceable; and if thereby the cost of administration by the societies has been or may be increased?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe Regulations made by the Welsh Commissioners as to the meeting places of approved societies prohibit societies approved by the Welsh Commissioners and Welsh branches of international societies from meeting on licensed premises. I am informed that religious bodies and education committees in all parts of Wales are providing accommodation for societies' meetings, and I have no reason to anticipate that these Regulations, which were unanimously approved by the Welsh Advisory Committee, will in general impose any additional expense upon societies.
§ Mr. KEIR HARDIEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this particular Regulation has given great cause of offence to many societies, and can it not be modified and made optional?
§ Mr. MASTERMANIt is a Regulation made under Statute by the Welsh Commission after having the unanimous support of their Advisory Committee. I think that is a very strong reason why it should be tried.
Mr. F. HALLHas the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the recent meeting of the Manchester Unity of Odd-fellows at which the directors stated that the present system in Wales is more troublesome, less efficient, and less economical as regards the administration of medical benefits than the old system under the societies?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI have not seen that statement. It is a matter for the Welsh Commission. I believe that in Wales generally there is a very strong opinion in favour of the change. We must remember that women are now members of the societies, and it is undesirable that societies in which women are members should meet on licensed premises.