Lieut.-Commander Hutchisonasked the Minister of Pensions what is the average length of time taken from initial measurements to final fitting of the applicant, for the supply of an artificial leg under the National Health Service scheme.
§ Mr. MarquandThe average time taken for supply of an artificial leg under the National Health Service is at present 36 weeks. A considerable improvement in the supply position is expected as a result of the recent introduction of two new contractors and the steps which are being taken to increase the output of existing contractors.
Lieut.-Commander Hutchisonasked the Minister of Pensions how many firms in Scotland are engaged in the manufacture of artificial limbs for applicants under the National Health Service scheme; and in what towns or districts these firms are situated.
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§ Mr. MarquandOne firm in Glasgow is engaged in the manufacture of artificial limbs for National Health Service patients in Scotland. Two other contractors with headquarters in England have agents resident in Scotland, who receive orders on their behalf. These agents are available at Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee. In addition, one of the new contractors is expected to have agents in Scotland in the near future. Patients in Scotland as elsewhere have free choice among the limbs made by all contractors.