§ Mr. J. Griffithsasked the Minister of Health what is the average cash value of the additional benefits provided by approved societies under the National Insurance Acts; and what is the highest and the lowest additional benefit so provided by approved societies?
§ Sir K. WoodI assume that the hon. Member refers to increases in the statutory rates of sickness, disablement and maternity benefits. The average increase, covering some 70 per cent. of the insured population, is about three units, that is 3s. a week in respect of1362W sickness benefit, 1s. 6d. in respect of disablement benefit, and 6s. in respect of maternity benefit. Some approved societies have made no increase, while some of the most prosperous have made an increase of five units and also devoted funds to various treatment benefits.