§ 23. Mr. D. J. Williamsasked the Minister of National Insurance whether he is aware that some approved societies have refused applications for membership from insured persons on the ground that their affairs are to he taken over when the national insurance scheme 15 comes into operation; and what steps he is taking to secure that these persons shall not be at any disadvantage as a result.
§ The Minister of National Insurance (Mr. James Griffiths)Difficulties of the kind indicated have not been numerous, but my hon. Friend will be glad to know that after consultation with approved society representatives I have now made regulations dealing with this matter. As from 21st April, insured persons who are not members of approved societies will in general be entitled to statutory benefits on an insurance basis in the same way as members of approved societies and the Navy, Army and Air Force Insurance Fund. Their benefits and those of the members of the latter Fund will in future be paid from special offices which my Department is opening for the purpose in 43 centres as part of the arrangements for transition to the new scheme.