§ 16. Sir J. D. REESasked whether the National Insurance Act Amendment Bill will provide a remedy for the grievance of the Scottish Clerks' Association, which joined in the Chancellor of the Exchequer's scheme on the understanding that their method of providing medical benefits and free choice of medical attendant was saved, whereas it has in fact been sacrificed, notwithstanding the fact that Section 15, Sub-section (4), provides for satisfactory recognition?
§ Mr. MASTERMANSo far as I am aware there is nothing to prevent the association from working a scheme for additional medical benefit on the private side with free choice of their members for ordinary attendance amongst panel doctors or (where the local insurance committee permits it) amongst non-panel doctors also, of whom in Scotland in most districts there are very few. The Commissioners are advised that the special medical scheme of the association could not legally be approved as a system or institution under Section 15 (4) of the National Insurance Act.
§ Mr. WATTDoes the right hon. Gentleman deny that promises were made to this association while the Bill was under discussion which have not been fulfilled?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI do not think any promises were made which have not been fulfilled. If the association chooses to adjust itself to the conditions laid down by the Act, they can carry out their scheme.