HC Deb 24 March 1937 vol 321 c2905
107. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Minister of Health when it is proposed to amend the National Health Insurance Scheme so as to bring within its provisions young persons on entry into employment; and whether he will state the reasons for the delay?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Mr. R. S. Hudson)

I am not yet in a position to add anything to the repy given to the hon. Member on 15th March last.

Mr. Davies

Are we right in assuming that the medical profession's objections to the fee that has to be paid in the case of these boys and girls are holding up the Government's legislation?

Mr. Hudson

No, Sir. I said in my reply that the matter had been connected with the larger question of fees and that my right hon. Friend had agreed to the suggestion that the whole matter should be referred to an independent court of inquiry.

Mr. Davies

Is it not a fact that the medical profession declined to accept the offer of the panel fee suggested, and because of that the medical profession is holding up the Government's legislation?

Mr. Hudson

That is not altogether a complete description.