HC Deb 14 June 1934 vol 290 cc1903-4
35. Mr. GROVES

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that William Flack, 61, Henniker Road, Stratford, E., who was insured with the London and Provincial Dividing Society, has been decided by the divisional medical officer to be fit for work on 31st May although the insurance doctor certifies him as unfit, and the London Hospital authorities by an order, dated 31st May, intimate that he has been placed on the waiting list to become an in-patient; and whether, as the medical benefit is denied to the insured person on the strength of the divisional medical officer's instructions, he will institute an immediate inquiry and ensure that this man will not suffer as the result of conflicting medical opinion?

Sir H. YOUNG

The question whether an insured person is entitled to sickness benefit under the National Insurance Acts by reason of incapacity for work is a matter for determination by his approved society in the light of all the available evidence, including any second medical opinion which may have been obtained through the Regional Medical Service. If the insured person is dissatisfied with that decision he is entitled to appeal in accordance with the rules of the society, and the hon. Member will, therefore, appreciate that it would not be proper for me to intervene or comment upon the merits of Mr. Flack's case at this stage.

Mr. GROVES

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Mr. Flack is about to enter London Hospital, and how can he, therefore, make his appeal; and why should a man, in the circumstances, suffer as a result of conflicting opinions as to medical treatment?

Sir H. YOUNG

I can see no reason why the applicant should not enter an appeal, or why arrangements should not be made to have an appeal entered for him. Approved societies are always most willing to assist their members through that procedure.

Mr. GROVES

Is the opinion of the regional medical officer under the Insurance Act to be accepted against that of the authorities of the London Hospital; and, as the man is incapacitated, why should he not be given the benefit of the doubt?

Sir H. YOUNG

I think the hon. Member must see that he is now asking me to argue as to the kind of evidence that ought to be produced upon an appeal.