HC Deb 06 May 1912 vol 38 cc178-9W
Mr. WILLIAM PEEL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many deputations he received from the British Medical Association before the introduction of the National Insurance Bill on 4th May, 1911, and on what dates; did he, before the introduction of the Bill, invite representations from the British Medical Association; and did he afford the association any opportunity of becoming acquainted before 4th May with the special provisions, of the Bill affecting the medical profession?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I interviewed members of the medical profession on several occasions before the introduction of the Bill on the question of the medical arrangements tinder the Bill. On three separate occasions I received deputations during the months of March and April, 1911, at the request of the British Medical Association.

Mr. WILLIAM PEEL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he proposes to take to carry out the terms of the Resolution moved by the hon. Member for West Cumberland on Wednesday last with regard to the co-operation of the medical profession in working the National Insurance Act, and accepted by him on behalf of the Government?

Mr. MASTERMAN

Since the passing of the Act the Commissioners have invited all representative bodies of the medical profession to confer with them with a view to securing their co-operation in arrangements for the working of the Act, and are prepared to consider any representations which any section of that profession may desire to place before them. The meetings of the Advisory Committee appointed to assist the Joint Committee of Insurance Commissioners in the preparation of regulations will begin on Friday next, and will be proceeded with as rapidly as possible. Among the regulations to be considered in due course will be those relating to medical benefit. In the drafting of these the medical members of the Advisory Committee, who include twelve representatives nominated by the British Medical Association, will have full opportunity of presenting the case of the profession for the consideration of the Commissioners.