HC Deb 29 March 1965 vol 709 cc1188-9
46. Mr. Costain

asked the Minister of Health what proposals he has for the future of charges for dental treatment.

Mr. K. Robinson

I would refer the hon. Member to my statement in the House on 17th December.

Mr. Costain

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a number of patients who ought to be having dental treatment are having it delayed in the mistaken belief that they will shortly get it free? Is he aware that I have letters from dentists in my constituency who are extremely worried that the treatment will be more complicated? Will he do something to make patients realise that they will not get the treatment free in future?

Mr. Robinson

I am very anxious indeed that dentists should not find themselves short of patients either now or when the removal of charges becomes imminent. Nothing that I have said should lead anybody to delay having dental treatment if he needs it now. He should realise that he may allow serious dental decay to develop if he does not take the opportunity of going to his dentist when he needs to do so. I will certainly see whether there are any further assurances that I need to give in order to prevent this happening.