§ 65. Mr. RAFFANasked the Comptroller of the Household, as representing the National Health Insurance Commissioners, whether it is within the competence of any approved society under the National Insurance Act to expend any portion of its funds upon the provision of dental benefits for its members with or without the approval of the National Health Insurance Commissioners?
§ The COMPTROLLER of the HOUSEHOLD (Mr. C. Roberts)In accordance with Section 37 of the Act of 1911 the additional benefits specified in Part II. of the Fourth Schedule to the Act can only be provided in a society whose funds show a surplus on valuation. The Commissioners are, however, advised that it is within the competence of a society to make subscrip- 2920 tions or donations under Section 21 of the Act, to a charitable institution having amongst its objects the provision of dental treatment which is available for the members of the society.
§ Mr. RAFFANAm I to understand that the society cannot directly give this benefit out of its own funds?
§ Mr. ROBERTSIt can make a subscription to the charitable societies for the purpose.
§ Mr. RAFFANMy question is whether the society cannot directly give benefits out of its own funds?
§ Mr. ROBERTSI think that in that case it could only give the benefit after a valuation and as the result of a declaration.