HC Deb 22 May 1968 vol 765 c527
27. Sir 3. Gilmour

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many people he now estimates will be eligible for exemption from prescription charges.

Mr. Millan

The number of exempt patients in Scotland is expected to be just under 2½ million.

Sir J. Gilmour

Can the Under-Secre-tary say whether he has concluded satisfactory arrangements with the pharmaceutical trade in Scotland about the method of repayment?

Mr. Millan

That is something which will be debatable on the regulations. Other discussions with the chemists are going on and the scheme will come into operation on 10th June.

Mr. Manuel

In regard to the large number of exclusions, will the actual cost of recovery and working out the exclusions make the scheme worth while?

Mr. Millan

Certainly it will be worth while in finding a saving.

Mr. Noble

Will the hon. Gentleman confirm that I heard him aright in suggesting that 50 per cent. of the people in Scotland will be exempt?

Mr. Millan

Yes, that is what I said.