§ Sir J. D. REESasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether arrangements were made in Germany prior to or upon the commencement of the War to suit the insurance regulations to altered circumstances and to mitigate the severity of the compulsory contributions; whether similar arrangements have been, or will be, made in the United Kingdom; whether an invalided soldier may resort to his panel doctor and chemist; what provision, if any, is made for a partially disabled soldier, disqualified for insurance because able to do light work; and whether the position of alien subscribers will be similar to that of Britsh subjects?
§ Dr. ADDISONI am informed that the measures referred to in the first part of the question have the effect of increasing the normal contributions, and no such measures are in contemplation in this country. An invalid soldier or sailor who has been insured during service is entitled on discharge to obtain medical attendance and medicines under the usual conditions. Where a person is able to do light work, contributions must be paid for him in respect of periods of employment and he is entitled to the ordinary benefits on the ordinary conditions. The Acts themselves make a distinction between the position of British subjects and that of aliens.
§ Mr. TOUCHEasked the Secretary to the Treasury if he can say why assistant clerks in the employment of the National Health Insurance Commission have been refused permission to join His Majesty's 259W forces, seeing that their work, which is of a detail character, could be done in their absence by a temporary staff?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe Insurance Commissioners have, as far as practicable, allowed assistant clerks in their Department to join His Majesty's Forces and 132 officers of this grade are already serving in the Army.