§ 13. Mr. Boydenasked the Secretary of State for the Social Services what representations he has received from medical organisations on the effect of the new dental charges on the dental health of the population.
§ Sir K. JosephThe only medical organisation from which I have received correspondence is the Socialist Medical Association. I met representatives of the British Dental Asociation on 23rd November.
§ Mr. BoydenThat must represent the whole of the medical profession, but the others have not written in. If the right hon. Gentleman cannot get off the Treasury hook as regards the general 1060 principle, will he at least have another thought about lowering the age of exemption from 21 to 18?
§ Sir K. JosephThat proposal will have to be the subject of legislation, and there will be ample opportunity to discuss it then.
§ Sir G. NabarroWhat would not be the subject of legislation would be to persuade the Chancellor of the Exchequer to do something about purchase tax. Is my right hon. Friend aware that, for example, a toothbrush is free of purchase tax whereas dentifrice and toothpaste is subject to tax at 36⅔ per cent.? Will he persuade the Chancellor to rid toothpaste and dentifrice of purchase tax, thereby making a much more direct contribution to dental health?
§ Sir K. JosephThat point is strongly made to me by the British Dental Association.
§ Sir G. NabarroI wish that my right hon. Friend would back it up.
§ Dr. SummerskillWill the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind that the British Dental Association regards these increased charges as a serious threat to the dental health of the nation and a definite deterrent to people who might seek treatment? Will he tell the House what will be the maximum charge for treatment under the new provisions?
§ Sir K. JosephThe maximum charge for treatment will be not more than £10. I know that the British Dental Association did hold the view which the hon. Lady has expressed. I hope that it will hold it less strongly after our discussion.