HC Deb 04 February 1943 vol 386 c1056
68. Sir Geoffrey Shakespeare

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the anticipated cost of social insurance in 1965–66 on the assumption that the present system is maintained and the Beveridge proposals are not adopted?

Sir K. Wood

I am not at the moment in a position to give an estimate, but the matter is under examination, and I will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as the necessary inquiries are complete.

Sir G. Shakespeare

When we consider the estimated cost of the Beveridge Report in 20 years' time, are we not entitled to deduct from that increase the sum by which the social services would normally increase in that time?

Sir K. Wood

That is an argument which my hon. Friend will, no doubt, develop in due course.