HC Deb 25 April 1917 vol 92 c2402
64. Mr. BYRNE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will consider the advisability of increasing the benefits paid under the National Insurance Act; and if the maternity benefit will be increased to £5 and disablement benefit to 10s.?

Sir E. CORNWALL (Comptroller of the Household)

The alterations in the rates of benefit which the hon. Member suggests would involve a large increase in the contributions, both of employers and employed, and any proposals on these lines would be very controversial.