HC Deb 15 November 1971 vol 826 c26
30. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will inquire into the insurance scheme for hospital benefit, particulars of which have been sent to him by the hon. Member for Willesden, West, in view of the fact that the premiums required would be approximately £10 a year higher than the average premium of other insurers; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ridley

The Insurance Companies Acts, 1958 to 1967, do not provide powers to control policy conditions or premium rates.

Mr. Pavitt

Has the hon. Gentleman seen the statistics and figures prepared by the Office of Health Economics? Is there nothing that his Department can do to prevent this rather morbid racket, when the average person pays £1 a week towards both N.H.S. and social security provision, that in addition this exorbitant rate should be charged in the hope that on being ill a little cash can be gained?

Mr. Ridley

It is not for me to comment on this situation because I have no powers to control premiums or policies. If the hon. Gentleman likes to give publicity to this matter, that is a matter for him.