HC Deb 28 February 1984 vol 55 cc151-2W
19. Mr. Frank Cook

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many representations he has received expressing support for his proposal to permit unqualified persons to dispense spectacles; and how many he has received expressing hostility.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

Around 300 representations have been addressed to either my right hon. Friend, or myself, giving comments on our proposals to modify the present restrictions on the sale of glasses. The overwhelming majority of these came from opticians or bodies representing opticians who naturally oppose the changes. We have received support on the proposal from the National Consumer Council and the Consumer's Association and from some individual members of the public.