§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has made of the annual cost of abolishing charges for(a) eye and (b) dental check-ups in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [70352]
§ Mr. GalbraithNHS sight test are available free of charge to eligible patients. It is estimated that the re-introduction of universally free NHS sight tests in Scotland would cost a minimum of £14 million annually. Free NHS sight tests for people aged 60 and over will be introduced from April
At present, patients who are not eligible for free NHS dental services or for help with the costs of these pay 80 per cent. of the examination or treatment fee directly to the dentist. It is estimated that the re-introduction of universally free NHS dental examinations in Scotland would cost a minimum of £4.5 million
From 1 July, this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.