§ 22. Mr. Eadieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the waiting list in Scotland for schoolchildren requiring dentures between the ages of five and 15 years; and if he will list the education authority areas.
Mr. Edward TaylorI am not aware of a waiting list for dentures under the school dental service in any area.
§ Mr. EadieI am surprised at the hon. Gentleman's reply because there has been mounting evidence, and indeed there have been lectures and speeches to the effect, that in Scotland—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. The hon. Member must ask a question.
§ Mr. EadieIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in Scotland there is evidence of the rapid deterioration and neglect of young children's teeth? In view of the mounting evidence, will the hon. Gentleman undertake to examine the problem and advise the appropriate authorities on 209 how to deal with it, because the present situation can have long-term consequences and lead to a deterioration in the health of these young persons?
Mr. TaylorThe hon. Gentleman is raising a rather wider issue. My reply to his original Question is that I am not aware of any waiting list in any area. If there are any difficulties of which the hon. Gentleman has details, I hope that he will let me know, and I shall look into them.
§ Mr. Hugh D. BrownThe hon. Gentleman is being extraordinarily irresponsible, and a bit complacent. In view of the changes announced yesterday by the Chancellor, particularly the withdrawal of free school milk and the increase in the price of school meals, does he not think that there will be a deterioration in the dental health of children? Will he show a greater sense of urgency in dealing with the problem?
Mr. TaylorAgain the hon. Gentleman has raised a much wider issue. He will be aware that exemptions for young people under 18 are to be continued. As regards the original Question, if the hon. Gentleman is aware of a waiting list in any area—and that is what the Question is about—I shall be glad to look into it.