§ 23. Mr. George Jegerasked the Minister of National Insurance whether arrangements have yet been made for prisoners in gaol to maintain their insurance contributions.
§ Dr. SummerskillOn admission to prison, insured persons are advised that they may pay contributions themselves or may arrange for someone to pay on their behalf or may pay retrospectively on discharge. The time limits to be prescribed for retrospective payment are still under consideration, but I intend that they should be as generous as possible.
§ Mr. JegerWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind that it is desirable that these young people in prison should not be penalised and have to pay two penalties for an offence by being debarred from the benefits which would come to them were they allowed to pay their contributions during their period in prison? I hope that my right hon. Friend will make arrangements to that effect.
§ Dr. SummerskillI fully agree with my hon. Friend. As I said in my answer, I intend that those men who wish to retrieve their position shall be able to do so.