HC Deb 07 December 1959 vol 615 cc18-9
37. Mr. W. Griffiths

asked the Minister of Health when he proposes to make available, under the National Health Service, transistor hearing aids.

Miss Pitt

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to the hon. Members for Stockton-on-Tees (Mr. Chetwynd) and Cardiff, West (Mr. G. Thomas) and the hon. and learned Member for Kettering (Mr. Mitchison) on 2nd November.

38. Mr. W. Griffiths

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the shortage of batteries and components parts for National Health Service bone conduction hearing aids at clinics in the Manchester and Stockport areas; and what steps he is taking to remedy this deficiency and prevent the hardship being experienced by the deaf.

Miss Pitt

Yes, Sir. The shortages, which were of batteries and receiver leads for this type of aid, arose primarily from production difficulties. My right hon. and learned Friend has already taken steps with the assistance of my right hon. Friend the Postmaster-General to increase supplies generally, and the November demands of these two centres for these items have been met in full.

Mr. Griffiths

While I am sure that the hon. Lady's reply will give considerable satisfaction in Manchester, may I ask whether she is aware that we have had the disappointing experience of deaf people, when recently renewing a coil, being supplied with a black one instead of the normal flesh-coloured one, which picks them out as disabled persons, which is a most unfortunate state of affairs? In addition, they were told for quite a period that they would have to buy their own batteries. I am sure we are all relieved to know that that will not happen again.

Miss Pitt

The shortage of batteries was due to a large number being substandard. This has been put right and we are hoping also to obtain supplies from another supplier. In particular, I am told that the position at Manchester for all items is now satisfactory and that Stockport now has sufficient leads for bone conduction aids. It has asked for some batteries this month and a consignment is about to be sent.