§ 39. Mr. Yatesasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that a large number of old age pensioners are in need of foot attention, but are unable to pay for treatment out of their pensions; and if he will now consider providing a free chiropody service for such persons within the National Health Service.
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the right hon. Member for Southwark (Mr. Isaacs) on 18th December last.
§ Mr. YatesIs the hon. Lady not aware that an increasing number of old age pensioners are in need of chiropodic treatment but are unable to pay for it? In those circumstances, would she consider whether it is possible to provide treatment and whether some arrangement could be made in local hospitals for old age pensioners to obtain treatment? Is it not a fact that the people who have been on their feet longest ought to obtain this treatment?
§ Miss Hornsby-SmithI cannot add to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave previously, but it will be within the the knowledge of the hon. Member that we have to put other priorities first.