§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many people suffer from kidney disease and undertake dialysis.
§ Sir George YoungThe number of people in the United Kingdom suffering from chronic renal failure and on haemodialysis at 31 December 1978 was estimated to be 2,900.
§ Mr. Ashleyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proposals he has to give financial assistance to kidney patients dialysing at home who incur travelling and other expenses when visiting hospital for special treatment.
§ Dr. VaughanNone. Assistance with travelling expenses to hospital is related to financial need rather than the specific condition of any patient. Health authorities are empowered to assist with travelling expenses of patients attending NHS hospitals, who would otherwise suf-316W fer financial hardship as assessed by the Supplementary Benefits Commission. This applies whether or not a patient is in receipt of supplementary benefit.