HC Deb 08 July 1913 vol 55 cc232-3W
Captain JESSEL

asked the Secretary to the Treasury if he has considered the suggestion of the Hearts of Oak Benefit Society that the insurance books should be issued in such form that the name and address of the member appears on the outside in such a place as to permit window envelopes to be used; and whether he has consulted the Postmaster-General on the matter?

Mr. MASTERMAN

These suggestions are now under consideration by the Commissioners in consultation with the Postmaster-General.

Captain JESSEL

asked the Postmaster-General whether he has considered the suggestion of the Hearts of Oak Benefit Society for window envelopes to be used for the transmission of unfolded insurance cards through the post; and whether he will sanction the proposal?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

The objections to "window" envelopes, namely, envelopes having an opening in the front covered with so-called "transparent" paper for the address to show through, are so considerable that I cannot acquiesce in their use for the transmission of insurance cards; but I am in communication with the National Health Insurance Joint Committee with a view to ascertaining whether the cards can be issued in such a form as to render them suitable for transmission enclosed in "cut out" envelopes having an opening not covered with transparent paper.

Captain JESSEL

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether he has considered the suggestion of the Hearts of Oak Benefit Society that the, allowance for management for the Army and Navy be increased to not less than 1s.per member per annum; and, if so, whether he is able to state the decision of the Commissioners en the point?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I have received a suggestion from the society referred to, but sufficient experience is not yet available to show whether the amount which may, under the present Regulations, be carried to the administrative account of societies is likely to prove insufficient to meet their expenses of management.