§ Mr. J. Morrisonasked the Minister of Health the present total estimated demand for the Medresco hearing aid; how many such aids have so far been supplied; when the total present demand will be satisfied; and to what extent the hospital distribution centres are dissuading applicants from meeting their immediate needs by purchasing commercial products.
§ Mr. BevanThe estimated total need is 150,000, and so far upwards of 9,000 have been supplied since 5th July. Production will shortly increase but I cannot say how long it will take to meet all needs. Hospitals have not been asked to dissuade patients from buying commercial aids.