§ 4. Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will amend the National Health Service (Charges for Drugs and Appliances) (Scotland) Regulations so as to grant a one year exemption from prescription 1234 charges to any woman whose child is either stillborn or dies within the first year of birth.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Health and Education, Scottish Office (Mr. Hector Monro)No, Sir. Much as I sympathise with these mothers, the existing arrangements already ensure that exemption is available for anyone who cannot afford to pay the charge for any prescriptions she may need.
§ Mr. SteelIs the hon. Gentleman aware that that is identical to the answer I was given yesterday by his hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services? Will not he listen to the representations of the medical profession in Scotland, through the Scottish Association of Executive Councils, and consider the small cost of removing this rather cruel and heartless regulation?
§ Mr. MonroWhen he puts down the same Question, I am sure the hon. Gentleman will expect to get the same answer. My Department and I have considered the views of the bodies he mentioned, but at present there is no intention of changing the regulations.