§ 50. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the extreme urgency of the need to increase the benefits payable under the National Health Insurance, in particular, sickness, maternity and disablement benefits; by what amounts it is intended to increase the benefits; and can he make a state- 772 ment on the matter in view of the urgency?
§ 51. Dr. Littleasked the Minister of Health whether, as sick persons drawing the small weekly allowance of Health Insurance benefit, and specially those suffering from chronic illness who are drawing even a smaller benefit, are facing much hardship through lack of proper 773 nourishment, he will, by the grant of a war bonus or otherwise, increase the weekly allowance to these sufferers who are undergoing much privation owing to the serious increase in the cost of living?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Horsbrugh)My right hon. Friend expects to be able to make a statement on this subject at an early date.
§ Mr. E. SmithMay I point out that we have had that answer before? In view of the urgency of this matter, if I repeat this Question about a week hence, does the hon. Lady think that the Minister will be able to make a statement?
§ Miss HorsbrughIt would be difficult as my hon. Friend will realise, to say the exact date. However, I think we are as anxious as he is to have a statement made as soon as possible.
§ Mr. ThorneWill the hon. Lady "ginger" up her chief on the matter?
§ Miss HorsbrughHe does not require it