§ Mr. L. M. Leverasked the Minister of Health if he will indicate the improvements in design and fitting of artificial limbs which have accrued from the work of the Department of Research and Experiment at Roehampton since its creation in 1947.
§ Miss PittAs a result of the work of the research department, in conjunction with the manufacturers of artificial limbs, there has been substantial improvement in the fitting, alignment and stability of artificial limbs: new types of sockets, corsets and pylons have been introduced: the use of new materials has been extended: and walking appliances for children have been developed. The design of arms has been improved, and many special arm appliances have been produced. Apart from the work which is done for amputees, appliances for patients with paralysed arms have been developed.
§ Mr. L. M. Leverasked the Minister of Health the average time now taken for major repairs to artificial limbs at Roehampton; and what steps he proposes to take to improve the service and avoid delay.
§ Miss PittBetween three and four months: the matter is being discussed with the manufacturers of artificial limbs.
§ Mr. L. M. Leverasked the Minister of Health the average time now taken to supply an entirely new artificial limb, 10W from the date of first measurement to the date of delivery of the new limb.
§ Mr. L. M. Leverasked the Minister of Health what medical and anatomical qualifications are required by persons to be employed as fitters of artificial limbs and appliances.
§ Miss PittI understand that the artificial limb manufacturers by whom limb fitters are employed do not require any such formal qualifications, but that the fitters are given considerable practical training in which the Ministry's medical officers assist.