MEDICAL BENEFIT

Waikato Times, Volume 126, Issue 21034, 9 February 1940, Page 2

MEDICAL BENEFIT

SOCIAL SECURITY MINISTER’S EXPECTATION ( Special lo TltilCa) AUCKLAND, Friday The administration of the social security scheme was reviewed by the acting-Minister of Social Security, the Hon. W. E. Parry, in an address at Papatoetoe last night. The meeting was convened by the women’s branch of the local Labour Party. Mr Parry said that between 1920 and 1930 the increase in the number of pensioners was 7349 and the increased pension payments over that period amounted to only £450,000. The total number of beneficiaries when the Labour Government took office was 57,815. In consequence of the legislation introduced by the present Government the number had increased to 122,718 and the expenditure on pensions had been increased to £9,366,000. Replying to questions, Mr Parry said the introduction of the medical practitioner benefits under the social security scheme was under negotiation. While he could say nothing definite, he felt that as the doctors had accepted the maternity benefits scheme it was an indication that the general benefits would be arranged at an early date. To another questioner he said that he had no doubt that if the people all put their shoulder to the wheel and increased production it would be possible to send and maintain the Expeditionary Force overseas and to continue with the full benefits of the social security scheme.