HC Deb 13 July 1982 vol 27 cc839-40
4. Mr. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the value of grants from his Department for research into tinnitus.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

The Department is currently funding an exploratory project into psychological aspects of adjustment to subjective tinnitus and the effectiveness of tailored masking at a cost of about £40,000 over a three-year period.

Mr. Knox

Does my hon. Friend believe that enough money is being spent on research into this distressing condition?

Mr. Finsberg

I agree that it is a distressing condition. One problem is that we are not receiving sufficient suggestions for research. If anyone has a suggestion, we shall see that it is carefully considered for grant purposes.

Mr. Straw

Is the Minister aware that tinnitus is terrifying for many sufferers?

Mr. Race

My hon. Friend should declare his interest.

Mr. Straw

I declare my interest. Is not £40,000 for research over three years derisory compared with the size of the task? Should not the importance attached to and the funding of the research be greatly increased?

Mr. Finsberg

As I said, one problem is that few projects for research come forward. I shall gladly listen to any ideas that the hon. Gentleman might have and put them to my experts.