HC Deb 11 May 1948 vol 450 c1935
8. Sir I. Fraser

asked the Minister of Pensions whether his attention has been called to the American all-metal folding indoor chair for paraplegics and other chair cases; and whether he will introduce this or a similar chair for British ex-Service men.

Mr. Buchanan

Yes, Sir, my Department has been considering the question of improving the design of indoor chairs for paraplegics, and the American all-metal chair has been seen among others. As a result an improved chair is being designed and steps will be taken to bring it into use as soon as possible.

Sir I. Fraser

Will it be a folding chair, and could some of the men see it before the design is finalised?

Mr. Buchanan

The doctor at the hospital where this work is carried on has, to a large extent, been the designer of the chair, and he is in daily touch with the men involved. I think the men are well aware of his view on the matter.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when the chair will be available?

Mr. Buchanan

The difficulty it that it is a new and improved design which we will need to get into production. I had a meeting this forenoon with my officials and asked them to proceed as expeditiously as possible.