§ 42. Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that Leicester citizens requiring hearing aids have to travel twice to Nottingham, once for a test and again for a final fitting; that this involves expense for fares and meals and also loss of time from work, and is a particular hardship for elderly people; and whether he will make arrangements in Leicester for the testing and final fittings there for the residents in Leicester and the surrounding countryside.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodI am informed that Leicester patients are normally tested and fitted finally with their aids at Leicester, and attend the distribution centre at Nottingham only once, where they receive their aids with a temporary earpiece.
§ Mr. JannerWhy should people be called upon to attend at Nottingham even once, particularly when it puts them to very considerable expense, which they cannot stand? Does the right hon. Gentleman think that Nottingham is such a pleasure resort that Leicester people want to go there? Will he consult the 1621 Prime Minister and other Ministers with a view to ensuring that Leicester is given proper amenities and facilities for this service?
§ Mr. MacleodI cannot enter into any argument about the respective merits of Leicester and Nottingham, but I will, of course, take up the hon. Gentleman's point with the regional hospital board.
§ Mr. JannerThank you very much.