HC Deb 07 April 1914 vol 60 cc1797-8
51. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)

asked what is the number of deposit contributors under the health section of the National Insurance Act; and how many of these have been notified of entire suspension of benefits?

Mr. BENN

The number of deposit contributors on 12th January, 1914, was approximately 360,000; 60,200 contributors have been notified of suspension of benefits, but it is not at present possible to state how many of these are still deposit contributors, as in a large number of cases, of which the Commissioners have not yet been notified, suspension is due to the contributors having ceased to pay contributions into the Deposit Contributors' Fund, because they have either joined approved societies or gone out of insurance.

Mr. F. HALL

Have some of these deposit contributors now ceased to receive benefits under the Act because the amount of their contributions have been exhausted after the deduction of expenses?

Mr. BENN

Yes, I have no doubt that is so in some cases.

Mr. F. HALL

Do they therefore get 9d. for 4d.?

Mr. BENN

Yes, Sir, the deposit contributor is precisely the person who does get 9d.