§ 34. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Minister of Health what special arrangements are made under the National Health Service for the issue of additional spectacles to butchers.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas MooreOn a point of Order. Before this Question is answered, might I ask for your guidance? I have always understood that the Clerks at the Table would refuse to accept any Question which was ironical. Surely, Sir, this Question can only refer to the efforts of the butchers to see the present meat ration.
§ Mr. SpeakerThat is entirely a matter of opinion. I am no judge of that. Mr. Bevan.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesIs my right hon. Friend aware of the widespread Conservative propaganda to the effect that butchers are abusing the scheme? Is there any evidence of that?
§ Mr. BevanThere is no evidence as far as I know. In certain circumstances—and this can arise in some professions—a person requires spectacles for near sight, middle sight and far sight. Where a third sight is involved, special application must be made to the ophthalmic committee of the executive council, who will then examine all the facts.
§ Brigadier MedlicottIs it not a fact that what the butchers need is not so much spectacles as microscopes?