HC Deb 17 April 1951 vol 486 cc1637-8
15. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many people in Scotland were supplied with dentures and spectacles last year; and what is his estimate of the sum likely to be saved next year in Scotland as a result of the Budget proposals.

Miss Herbison

In the year to 31st March last, just over 400,000 persons were supplied with dentures and just over 750,000 with spectacles. If Parliament passes in the near future the legislation needed for the charges proposed by my right hon. Friend, the saving in Scotland during the financial year now current is expected to exceed £1 million.

Mr. Hughes

Is there any evidence of widespread abuse of these services?

Miss Herbison

I should not say that there has been widespread abuse of these services, but there has been some abuse.

Sir T. Moore

Since it is obvious that the Scottish people need spectacles to see the present meat ration and dentures with which to eat it, is the saving justified?

Mr. Carmichael

As my hon. Friend indicated that there will be a saving of £1 million, could she give any indication of the class of people who will aid us by saving that? Will the old age pensioners be subject to any means test when they make application for spectacles or dentures?

Miss Herbison

Those who at the present time are receiving national assistance and the majority of the old age pensioners who are on supplementary benefit will still be able to get dentures without cost.

Mr. Carmichael

If they are not on national assistance but are dependent entirely on their old age pension or their superannuation, have they to go through a means test in order to qualify?

Miss Herbison

I suggest that my hon. Friend await the Bill which will be published very soon. Those people who because of financial circumstances are unable to pay will, just as they get other benefits, have this benefit.