HC Deb 30 September 1915 vol 74 cc997-8
32. Mr. PRINGLE

asked the Comptroller of the Household, as representing the National Health Insurance Commission, whether, in view of the proposed increase of postal charges, the allowance to approved societies for administration expenses will be increased?

The COMPTROLLER of the HOUSEHOLD (Mr. Charles Roberts)

The change referred to in the first part of the question can only take effect after the passage of the Finance Bill, and any statement in regard to the second part would, therefore, be premature at this stage.

Mr. PRINGLE

Has not the hon. Gentleman considered the probable effect of this proposed change?

Mr. C. ROBERTS

We have them in mind.

Mr. BOOTH

May I ask my hon. Friend whether he does not realise that these societies are not working for profit, and that if this additional charge is put on them it must reduce the sickness benefit? Will he not feel it his duty to make strong representations to the Chancellor of the Exchequer on behalf of the approved societies, who look to him for protection?

Mr. C. ROBERTS

I am quite certain the Chancellor of the Exchequer is weighing that consideration.

Mr. TYSON WILSON

Is the hon Gentleman aware that the charge for sending insurance cards, if this proposed alteration is agreed to, will be increased by over 300 per cent.?

Mr. PRINGLE

And will the hon. Gentleman, on behalf of the Insurance Commissioners, make representations to the Chancellor of the Exchequer as to the probable effect of the proposals?

Mr. C. ROBERTS

I am pretty sure these representations are reaching the Chancellor of the Exchequer at the present time.

Mr. BOOTH

But are they reaching him from my hon. Friend?

Mr. C. ROBERTS

I am aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer is receiving these representations in very considerable numbers.