HC Deb 12 July 1938 vol 338 cc1114-5
60. Mr. Logan

asked the Minister of Health whether instead of charging costs of references to regional medical officers and regional dental officers to the administration account of an approved approved society, he will allow such expenses to be charged to the benefit fund account?

Mr. Bernays

The cost of references by an approved society to regional medical and dental officers is an expense of administration, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 102 (1) of the National Health Insurance Act, 1936, is properly chargeable to the administration account.

Mr. Logan

In view of the importance of this question, is it not possible to change this account, which really deals with the health of the people, to the benefit fund account, so as to enable the administration account to have its proper quota and the benefit fund account to give additional benefits to the members?

Mr. Bernays

Under the Statute the administration expenses have to go down to the administration account, and I should imagine that the remedy would be to apply for a larger amount for the administration account, but I cannot assure the hon. Member that if they make that application it will be granted.