§ 92. Sir Patrick Hannonasked the Minister of National Insurance if his attention has been called to the confusion which has arisen among large numbers of people in their failure to realise the distinction between friendly and approved societies; and if he will indicate briefly the purpose and function of these bodies, respectively, in relation to the Government's proposals.
§ The Minister of National Insurance (Sir William Jowitt)A friendly society is a voluntary mutual association formed for the purpose of making provision for its members mainly in respect of sickness, old age and death. An approved society is a self-governing organisation responsible for the administration of the cash and additional benefits to which its members may be entitled under the National Health Insurance Acts. Approved societies are of various origin, and many friendly societies are approved for the purpose of conducting National Health Insurance business for their members. The proposed new scheme of National Insurance will leave friendly societies free to carry on their voluntary activities, but, as stated during the recent Debate on the Scheme, the Government take the view that the new benefits should be directly administered by a Ministry of National Insurance, and not by a system of approved societies.
§ Sir P. HannonCan the right hon. and learned Gentleman take some measures by which the statement he has now made to the House will be brought to the more intimate notice of friendly societies?
§ Sir W. JowittI hope that the statement I have made will be reported.