HC Deb 21 February 1935 vol 298 c507
34. Mr. SUMMERSBY

asked the Minister of Health the numbers of formerly insured persons who, as a result of the legislation of 1931, have now lapsed from health insurance; and the extent to which these are relying upon medical attention from the public assistance authorities?

Sir H. YOUNG

If, as I presume, my hon. Friend has in mind the provisions of the National Health Insurance and Contributory Pensions Act, 1932, the number asked for in the first part of the question is approximately 170,000. I have no figures showing how many of these persons have in fact found it necessary to apply to the public assistance authorities for medical attention, but such information as is available suggests that the number is not large.

Mr. RHYS DAVIES

Is it not correct to say that were it not for that amendment Act most of these people would have been retained under health insurance?

Sir H. YOUNG

That is indeed a hypothetical question.

Mr. DAVID GRENFELL

Am I right in assuming that the question relates to the legislation of 1932 and not to 1931?

Sir H. YOUNG

That is corrected in my reply to the question.