§ Mr. Hayesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what was the cost of collecting prescription charges in 1983;
(2) if he is satisfied that the present system of collecting prescription charges is the most cost efficient; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkePrescription charges collected by pharmacist contractors are retained by them against NHS payments due to them. This is a highly effective system which operates at minimal cost.