HC Deb 25 March 1975 vol 889 c82W
51. Mrs. Chalker

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when she proposes to reduce and abolish prescription charges.

Mrs. Castle:

We began on 8th April 1974 by extending prescription charge exemption to children aged between 15 and 16 and women aged 60 to 65; we continue by refraining from increasing the charge despite increases in wages and prices; we shall make further progress when economic circumstances and the resources available for the health services permit.