§ Mr. R. YOUNGasked the Minister of Health whether National Health Insurance has cost since its inception £190,000,000, while benefits disbursed have only amounted to £24,000,000; and, if so, will he explain the reason for the cost of administration, and also say what was the amount of money remaining to the credit of the National Health Insurance Fund at the end of June or latest ascertainable period?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe total cost of National Health Insurance from its inception to 31st December, 1919, was in round figures £190,000,000; the amounts paid in benefits and administration were £99,000,000 and £25,000,000 respectively, leaving a balance in reserve at that date of £66,000,000. The hon. Member in his figures has omitted the main cash benefits of the Act—namely, the sickness and disablement benefits.