§ 16. Sir J. D. REESasked whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware that the Saturday collections for Nottingham hospital are £1,600 less than those of the previous year; that the deficiency is due to the unwillingness of subscribers to continue their subscriptions since the National Insurance Tax has been levied; and whether the Government proposes to reimburse hospitals in such cases or to in- 30 troduce the principle of voluntary contribution under the National Insurance Act?
§ Mr. W. BENNThe answer to the first two parts of the question is in the negative. With regard to the last part, as I have previously stated, if, as the result of experience the voluntary hospitals find that they require State Grants, the whole question of State control would necessarily be raised, and at the present time this is not contemplated.
§ Sir J. D. REESMay I ask whether the Government have under consideration the giving up of the compulsory character of these contributions, the effects of which are so cruel in some cases?
§ Mr. W. BENNThat is not a question which rests with me.
§ Sir J. D. REESHow can I help addressing the question to the hon. Gentleman when the Minister concerned is not here?
§ Mr. W. BENNMy right hon. Friend is absent on account of ill-health. I am pointing out to the hon. Gentleman that his question should be addressed, not to the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, but to the Prime Minister.