§ 34. Mr. HEPWORTHasked the Minister of Health how many approved societies have, within the past year, withdrawn any benefits previously granted; and whether he can give any details?
40. Mr. ROSTRON DUCKWORTHasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the improvement in trade and industry, any approved societies are extending their benefits; and, if so, in what directions?
§ Sir K. WOODI presume that in each case the reference is to the additional benefits which approved societies and branches may provide out of a surplus found on valuation. The fourth valuation of societies and branches has recently been completed, and, although there have been many variations of schemes of additional benefits, the position over the insured 548 population as a whole shows no appreciable change on balance. As there are over 5,000 schemes of additional benefits, it is clearly impossible for me to give details of the changes made. Improvement in the financial position of societies, due to improvement in trade and industry, would not operate to improve additional benefits until after the next valuation.
§ Mr. LOGANIs it not possible that under the scheme which came into operation in January, 1936, the approved societies will at next valuation be able to give increased additional benefits, due to the solvency of the fund?