§ 32. Mr. Gowasked the Secretary of State for Social Services on what date the present prescription charge was fixed; what would be the current charge if it was the same in real terms; and what proposals he has to increase the charge.
§ Dr. OwenThe main prescription charge of 20p has applied since 1st April 1971. The equivalent charge would now be about 39p. We have no plans to increase the charge; our intention is to phase out all prescription charges as 103W economic circumstances and resources available for the health services permit.