asked the Minister of Health whether, seeing that the benefits authorised under the Health Insurance Act are greater in those societies composed mostly of rural workers as compared with those in purely urban districts, and that the former societies have created greater surpluses per person insured, he will consider authorising a reduced contribution under the National Health Insurance Act from those living in rural areas?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN:

Pending the Report of the Royal Commission now in session, I could not properly make such a change in the National Health Insurance system as is suggested. I may add that approved societies can repay as an additional benefit out of accrued surplus the whole or part of the contributions of their members, and accordingly societies composed mainly of rural workers, and having a favourable sickness experience, can now provide the normal benefits at an annual cost to members less than the product of the normal contribution.