HC Deb 24 March 1920 vol 127 cc568-70

Resolution reported, That, for the purpose of any Act of the present Session to amend the Acts relating to National Health Insurance, it is expedient to authorise the payment out of moneys to be provided by Parliament of the additional expenses incurred by any Government department:—

  1. (a) in making grants equal to two-ninths of the funds required for providing benefits and for defraying expenses of administration, so however that the rate of sickness benefit shall not exceed fifteen shillings a week for men or twelve shillings a week for women, the rate of disablement 569 benefit shall not exceed seven shillings and six pence a week, and maternity benefit shall not exceed forty shillings;
  2. (b) in increasing from eight shillings to ten shillings the rate on which is calculated the maximum amount which may be charged on the Women's Equalisation Fund;
  3. (c) in increasing the weekly sums to be paid to insurance funds in respect of members of the Navy, Army, and Air Force."

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That this House doth agree with the Committee in the said Resolution."

Mr. THOMSON

On the Second Reading the Minister of Health assured the House that the Committee would have an opportunity of discussing the variation of grants as between men and women. This Resolution fixes the differentiation. On the Insurance Unemployment Bill we were told that the House, having passed a financial Resolution, which fixed the way in which these grants could be made—

Lieut.-Colonel Sir R. SANDERS (Lord of the Treasury)

The Minister in charge, I am sorry to say, cannot be here, and if the hon. Member wishes to discuss the matter we should be ready to adjourn the Debate.

Mr. THOMSON

I was going to ask if the Government would agree to leave out the words "for men and the twelve shillings a week for women," as that would leave the question open.

Mr. SPEAKER

That would be increasing the charge, which is not permissible.

Question put, and agreed to.

The remaining Orders were read, and postponed.

ADJOURNMENT.—Resolved, "That this House do now adjourn."—[Sir R. Sanders.]

Adjourned accordingly at Five Minutes after Eleven of the Clock.