§ 3. Dr. Stuttafordasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many local authorities have supplied him with figures which enable him to calculate the percentage increase in consultations in local birth control centres when an entirely free service has been provided; and what are these percentage increases.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Security (Mr. Michael Alison)I regret that this information is not yet available.
§ Dr. StuttafordIs my hon. Friend aware that in Camden, where a free service has been introduced this year, first attendances have gone up by 27 per cent., which shows the value of a truly free service as regards supplies as well as advice?
§ Mr. AlisonThe Camden service, I understand, has not yet been working a full year, which is one reason why I cannot give a categorical answer. But if the experience of Kingston upon Hull, which has had a free service since 1966, is any indication, large increases in the use made of the facilities may be expected.