§ 133. Mr. Thornton-Kemsleyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that patients ordering spectacles under the National Health Scheme from opticians in Aberdeen are having to wait four months for delivery, whereas in London patients are able to obtain new spectacles in less than two months; and whether he has made representations to this effect to the Ophthalmic Optical Production Committee.
§ Mr. WoodburnThere is no evidence to suggest that the average waiting period for glasses is longer in Aberdeen than in London; the period varies in both places according to the different type of lenses required. The shortage of glasses is nation-wide and the Ophthalmic Optical Production Committee is actively considering all possible ways of increasing production.