§ 61. Mr. Edward Evansasked the Minister of Health what facilities are available in this country for the performing of the fenestration operation in certain types of deafness; for how long these facilities have been provided; whether they are available in suitable cases under the National Health Scheme; and what cost falls upon the patient.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThis operation has been performed regularly for several years in many hospitals in this country, and can be obtained within the National Health Service with no charge to the patient.
§ Mr. EvansIs the Minister aware that that answer will be welcomed by many people who have only the haziest idea of the facilities provided for this complaint? Is he further aware that not long ago a great deal of Press publicity was given to a case of a girl who was sent to America, for which £800 was collected privately? Will the right hon. Gentleman do as much as he can to see that the general public are made aware of these facilities under the National Health Service?
§ Mr. MacleodI am grateful to the hon. Member for that supplementary question. It makes me very sad when I see money being collected for people to have this sort of operation, whether in this country or abroad. Of course, it is true that for some time there may have to be a waiting list if there is particular pressure on that speciality, but it cannot be made clear too often that every service is available free in this country under the National Health Service.