§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans his Department has to re-introduce free dental examinations under the national health service; and if he will make a statement. [26983]
§ Mr. MaloneThere are no plans to re-introduce free dental examinations for all. Certain groups, including all those under 18 years, are exempt from all dental charges, including those for examination. Others on a low income may get free dental treatment or help with the cost. In all, some 25 per cent. of adult courses receive full or partial relief from charges.
§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how many people in the United Kingdom currently have private dental plans; and if he will make a statement; [27021]
(2) how many people were registered with private dentists in (a) 1984, (b) 1989, (c) 1992 and (d) 1995; and if he will make a statement. [27113]
§ Mr. MaloneInformation on the number of people with private dental plans or who receive dental treatment outside the national health service is not available centrally.
§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent representations his Department has received concerning the re-introduction of free dental check-ups; and if he will make a statement. [26977]
§ Mr. MaloneThe Department of Health has received a small number of letters concerning the re-introduction of free dental examinations.
503W
§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans his Department has to develop the role of the community dental services as a safety net; and if he will make a statement. [26981]
§ Mr. MaloneOn 5 April 1995 the Government announced their proposals for the reform of national health service dentistry. These reforms included the Government's intention of strengthening the role of the community dental service.