§ Mr. BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will estimate savings to the Exchequer in a full year of ending exemptions for prescriptions for(a) pregnant women, (b) pensioners and (c) children; and if she will make a statement.
§ Dr. MawhinneyNo firm figures are available. Any savings which might accrue from ending universal charge exemption from the groups cited by the hon. Member would be abated by the cost of income-related charge remission under the national health service low-income scheme, exemption on medical grounds, and by the take-up of prescription prepayment certificates.