§ 44. Mr. C. Smithasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that particulars were submitted to his Department by the hon. Member for Colchester on 2nd May of a man who, after waiting six weeks for an appointment for sight testing, has now waited more than seven months for the provision of the spectacles required, while his wife is advised that she must wait a total of three months for sight testing from the date of original application; and whether he will take some action to reduce the delay in such cases.
§ Mr. BevanA reply was sent to my hon. Friend on 25th May. Every effort40W is being made to improve the production of glasses, but I am afraid delays in supply are still inevitable.
§ Sir W. Smilesasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the delay in the making up of new spectacles is due to the shortage of lenses, while there are plenty of spectacle frames available; and if he will take steps to reduce the export of lenses until the present delay in the supply of spectacles has been eliminated.
§ Mr. BevanYes, but I am not prepared to recommend reduction of the small lens exports, which are essential if we are to keep our export market for ophthalmic optical goods generally. Supplies are being improved by the importation of suitable lenses.