§ Mr. Emrys Robertsasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction in rural areas in North Wales owing to the means test imposed on National Health patients who have to visit hospitals in urban centres; and what action is proposed by him to remedy this defect in the health service.
§ Mr. BevanI presume the hon. Member is referring to the assessment of need when patients claim their expenses in travelling to and from hospital. This arrangement, which applies to urban and rural areas alike, was introduced to prevent abuse while still protecting cases of genuine hardship. I am not contemplating any further change.