§ 26. Sir B. Jannerasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that lenses for children's spectacles provided through the National Health Service are not splinter-proof and that an extra charge of £1 8s. is made for such lenses; and whether he will take steps to remedy this position.
§ Sir B. JannerWhat does the Minister mean by that? Does she not appreciate that these types of glasses should be available for every child in the schools? Is it not essential that a child should be provided with these glasses in any circumstances? Why does she not arrange that that should be done?
§ Miss PittWhat I mean is that where a hospital specialist says that the child needs unsplinterable glasses, they can be provided under the Service. I am advised that in general it is not justifiable to provide unsplinterable glasses for all children.
§ Sir B. JannerDoes not the Minister realise that this type of glasses is essential for children? What on earth is she talking about?
§ Miss PittI am advised that it is not essential in all cases. Cases, for instance, of a spastic child liable to falls would come within the definition of those for whom unsplinterable glass is provided through the hospital service.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonWill the Minister look at this again. Every child is liable to falls. Is it not most important that damage to eyes resulting from such falls should be avoided, if it can be avoided, even if it involves the Health Service in a little extra cost?