§ 36. Mr. Loganasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that thousands of National Health insured members are likely to be in arrears, and lose benefits, through not knowing what to do about loss and destruction of National Health Insurance cards, due to bombing; and will he arrange a broadcast supplying this information, and issue to approved societies on demand Forms X219 (c) and X79 (c) to enable them to complete particulars?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Horsbrugh)I am aware that many stamped National Health Insurance cards have been lost or destroyed by enemy action. In order that the risk of loss of benefit may be minimised, all approved societies and local authorities have now been specially advised of the simplified procedure to be followed in reporting such loss or destruction to the Central Department, so that credit may be allowed for the missing stamps with the utmost speed. My right hon. Friend will certainly consider the hon. Member's suggestions regarding further publicity and the issue of forms to approved societies on demand.
§ Mr. LoganWill the hon. Lady co-ordinate the services so that approved societies obtain what is actually required? Is she aware that that leaflet only came out last week, and that in reply to my Question the hon. Lady stated these two pamphlets were required? I am asking the Ministry to supply approved societies with what is necessary so that members will not lose their benefit. Are these two circulars sent on demand to the society, and, if not, why not?
§ Miss HorsbrughThey are sent on demand. As I stated in my reply, these are forms to be filled up by the employer or person whose card has been lost. Arrangements are made whereby forms can be obtained at post offices or information centres, where help is also given in filling them up. The reason for not sending them except on demand is that the 430 approved society would have to send them back again. I think the hon. Member will agree that there is much co-operation and that we are pressing on with the scheme.
§ Mr. Speaker rose—
§ Mr. LoganOn a point of Order. I raised this question on the 10th of the month, and I waited many days before I received a reply. When I received a reply, the Ministry sent out a circular which does not meet the situation. Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I shall raise the matter on the earliest occasion.