HC Deb 23 June 1938 vol 337 cc1265-6
69. Mr. Jenkins

asked the Minister of Health whether any steps are being taken with a view to getting agreement amongst the approved societies under the National Health Insurance Act to bring about an equalisation of benefits; and, if not, will he give consideration to the advisability of doing so?

Mr. Elliot

As the hon. Member will appreciate, a complete equalisation of benefits under National Health Insurance would be inconsistent with the retention of the approved society system of administration and I do not think there is any prospect of getting agreement amongst approved societies in favour of such a change.

Mr. Jenkins

In view of the fact that there are such great differences between the rates paid under National Health Insurance, and in view also of the varying incidence of sickness upon different approved societies, will the Minister take steps to make the National Health Insurance scheme really national in character?

Mr. Whiteley

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the Royal Commission recommended at least partial pooling?

Mr. Elliot

The hon. Member knows as well as I do the difficulties which would arise from any such course.