§ 94. Mr. S. Marshallasked the Minister of Health why claims for payments due to opticians under the National Health Act are not paid in full monthly; and is he aware that many practitioners are unable to meet their accounts because of the delay in payments.
§ Mr. BevanI have suggested that Executive Councils should make payments monthly and have stressed the need for punctual payment. Heavy pressure has caused delays in some areas, but every effort is being made to overtake arrears and ensure prompt payment in future.