§ 21. Mr. Stonesasked the Minister of Health how many transistor hearing aids have been supplied to persons, other than schoolchildren, in the area covered by the Newcastle Hospital Board; what is the estimated number of such appliances needed to meet present requirements; and how soon they will be supplied.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministryof Health (Miss Edith Pitt)I regret that the figures for which the hon. Member asks are not available on a regional basis. In England and Wales as a whole, it is estimated that over half a million transistor hearing aids will be needed to replace valve aids now in use. My right hon. and learned Friend has not yet authorised their issue to adults other than war pensioners, but hopes quite soon to be able to give authority for a start to be made. Since it is bound to take quite a long time to complete so big a programme, he will suggest priorities to hospitals.
§ Mr. StonesWhile thanking the hon. Lady for that reply, may I ask her to accept my assurance that the sooner the needs of the unfortunate deaf people in the North are met the greater will be their satisfaction?