§ 9. Mr. GINNELLasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why cases of alleged malingering under the National Insurance Act are not dealt with in accordance with the statutory provisions for that purpose; whether the general inquiry into alleged malingering was conducted in secret in Great Britain as in Ireland; whether there was any substantial difference in the findings in the two countries; on what law or findings the difference of treatment is based instead of making the system of medical referees and the amount of remuneration for certification uniform; and will he state the scale of remuneration for certification in Great Britain and in Ireland, respectively?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe Report of the Departmental Committee on Sickness Benefit Claims in England has been laid before the House. No similar inquiry has been held in Ireland, and in the absence of medical benefit in Ireland renders it impossible to compare the systems of certification in Great Britain and in Ireland. I may point out, however, that the agreements entered into by doctors on the panel in Great Britain do not provide for specific payments for certification as distinct from other duties required by the agreements.
§ Mr. GINNELLWill the hon. Gentleman say whether any inquiry has been held in Ireland into malingering?
§ Dr. ADDISONI said that a similar kind of inquiry has been held.
§ Mr. GINNELLWhat kind of inquiry has been held?
§ Dr. ADDISONAn inquiry has been held in Ireland for the information of the Department.