§ Sir I. Alberyasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the difficulties experienced by deaf persons in obtaining high-tension batteries and spare parts and that improved appliances of small size are now manufactured in the U.S.A.; and if he will permit the importa- 1706W tion of a limited number for issue against a medical certificate for serious cases of deafness.
§ Mr. DaltonLimited imports of deaf-aids are admitted under licence from the United States, and I am advised that these should be sufficient for the small proportion of deaf persons whose needs cannot be met by British appliances. The existing programmes for the production of batteries and spare parts should provide for all reasonable requirements. But I shall be glad to look into any case of difficulty if my hon. Friend will send me particulars.