HC Deb 20 December 1954 vol 535 cc2417-8
23. Mr. G. Jeger

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance how many 1s. prescription charges were refunded during the past year to applicants in receipt of National Assistance.

Mr. Peake

From 1st October, 1953, to 30th September, 1954, the latest period of 12 months for which complete information is yet available, the National Assistance Board refunded rather more than 9¼ million shilling charges for dispensing of prescriptions. A small number of these refunds were made to persons not receiving a regular weekly National Assistance grant

Mr. Jeger

As a large number of refunds were made, would not it be admirable if they were made to everybody in receipt of an old-age pension, as there are many cases of hardship among old-age pensioners who are not necessarily in receipt of National Assistance, and this would be a big benefit to them? Will the Minister consider that?

Mr. Peake

As I said in the answer, a small number of refunds were made to persons not in receipt of National Assistance.

Mr. Hastings

Is not it a fact that old people who ask for a return of their Is. have to ask for a form at the time when the money is paid in the chemist's shop and then they have to fill in the form and submit it? Is not it true that because of the publicity involved many of them very much resent the procedure?

Mr. Peake

That is a question of policy which more concerns the Minister of Health than myself. I was only giving to the hon. Member information given to me as to the statistics furnished by the Board.

Mr. Jeger

Will the Minister take up the matter with his right hon. Friend and discuss whether this could not be extended to all in receipt of old-age pensions?

Mr. Peake

No, Sir. I do not think that would be a good idea.