§ 17. Dr. John Dunwoodyasked the Minister of Social Security what was the average administrative cost of refunding 1209 a single prescription charge when they were last in force; and what is the estimated cost when the charge is reintroduced.
§ Mrs. HartThe average cost per refund under the pre-1965 arrangements was about 6d. The new arrangements for exemption will reduce considerably the total number—and consequently the total administrative cost—of refunds that will be necessary. It is not practicable to give a precise estimate in advance of the cost per refund.
§ Dr. DunwoodyNevertheless, does not my right hon. Friend agree that the total cost of the refunds and exemptions that will be necessary under the scheme being introduced will considerably lessen the revenue from the reintroduction of prescription charges and cast in doubt the whole economic justification for the scheme?
§ Mrs. HartI very much doubt, having successfully arranged exemptions for numbers of people who pre-1965 were covered by refunds, if this will add to the cost. It will, in fact, produce a considerable staff saving for my Ministry as against having to deal separately with each refund. This is, therefore, a move which is doubly desirable; first, in terms of staff time and, secondly, to secure a better system for the people concerned.