§ 17. Sir A. Meyerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what guidance he intends to offer to doctors about the interpretations of "social need" in the new rules for family planning.
§ Sir K. JosephThe arrangements which I announced on 26th March provide for family planning advice and treatment to be available free to all and for supplies to be subject only to the stan- 218 dard prescription charge except in exempted cases when they would be free. The category of "social need" which was necessary under the 12th December proposals does not now apply.
§ Sir A. MeyerI am grateful to my right hon. Friend for that answer. Is he aware that almost certainly there will be mounting pressure to switch from the system of making standard prescription charges to the provision of completely free facilities? Is he confident that he can withstand this pressure indefinitely?
§ Sir K. JosephAs always I shall rely on the force of rational argument in the House, which I am sure will prevail.
§ Mr. PavittWill the right hon. Gentleman tell the House the mechanics for collection of prescription charges from clinics at present under local health authorities and those run by the Family Planning Association? How will it be arranged?
§ Sir K. JosephAll this change will come into effect only from 1st April next year, when it will be the National Health Service and not local authorities which will be responsible.
§ Sir K. JosephThe sterilisation and vasectomy provision is already made in the National Health Service for medical cases. I should like to have notice of my hon. Friend's question so that I can make sure that I give the reply precisely.