HC Deb 02 December 1981 vol 14 c265

As foreshadowed in the White Paper "The Government's Expenditure Plans 1981–82 to 1983–84" (Cmnd 8175) charges in all services will increase annually in line with cost. In addition from 1 April 1982 some charges will increase in real terms. The main details are as follows:

The prescription charge will be increased from £1.00 to £1.30. The annual pre-payment certificate for prescriptions will be increased from £15.00 to £20.00.

The maximum charge for routine dental treatment will be increased from £9.00 to £13.00 and that for other kinds of treatment from £60.00 to £90.00. In the case of more expensive items, charges will be at or somewhat above 50 per cent. of costs. Details of the charges for individual items of treatment will be announced later.

The maximum charge for spectacle lenses will be increased from £8.30 to £15.00 per lens. Details of the charges for individual types of lens will be announced later.