§ 3. Miss Burtonasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether he is aware that no provision is made for the chiropody treatment of old people in their own homes, unless they are able to meet the chiropodist's fee; that even where the chiropodist has agreed to make a reduced charge, it is still too high for most old age pensioners to afford; and if he will, therefore, ask the National Assistance Board to examine this particular need, with a view to helping those requiring treatment.
§ Mr. PeakeThe National Assistance Act precludes the Board from making grants for this purpose.
§ Miss BurtonI wonder whether we might have a little more helpful answer on this Question. Is the Minister aware that the care of the feet of old people is just as important as dental or medical treatment? Even in Coventry and other cities, where the cost has been reduced to old age pensioners, it is still too great for them to meet. Could not the Minister do something about it?
§ Mr. PeakeThe medical aspect is a matter for the Minister of Health, but the Board is bound by the terms of Section 64 of the Act, which precludes it from making grants for purposes such as this.