HC Deb 15 June 1939 vol 348 cc1497-8
38. Mr. E. Smith

asked the Minister of Health whether he is satisfied with the arrangement of notification to insured contributors of arrears by all approved societies?

Mr. Elliot

I am satisfied that the arrangements under which approved societies notify members of their arrears of contributions work satisfactorily. If the hon. Member has information which suggests that in any particular instance the requirements of the regulations are not carried out, I shall be happy to have inquiries made.

Mr. Smith

Is the Minister aware of the large number of insured contributors who lose their pension rights as the result of not receiving notification; and of the relatively large number of widows who are denied their right to pensions because the notification is not satisfactory?

Mr. Elliot

If the hon. Member has information as to any such cases, I shall be glad to have it.

Mr. Buchanan

Will not the right hon. Gentleman circularise all approved societies asking them to see that these regulations are operated?

Mr. Elliot

I should like in the first place to have evidence that they are not operating satisfactorily.