§ Mrs. Dunwoodyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many reports he has received of people being wrongly charged for health care by the National Health Service.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI assume that the hon. Member is referring to charges made under the National Health Service (Overseas Visitors) Regulations. I have had one case drawn to my attention where a hospital accepted a written promise to pay charges from a relative of an overseas visitor admitted for treatment. The health authority claims that the relative, who was not liable in law for any charges, offered to pay but, in any event, I have asked the authority not to pursue the matter or claim any money. I have received no reports of anyone being illegally charged.