§ Mr. M. MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what provision is being made under the National Health Service for regular visits by opticians and ophthalmic specialists to the various islands of the Outer Hebrides, in view of the time wasted and the expenses incurred by people, requiring sight testing or simple treatment, who have to go to neighbouring islands or mainland centres.
§ Mr. WoodburnThe Regional Hospital Board is establishing a monthly eye clinic at Stornoway and is arranging quarterly or, if necessary, more frequent visits of opthalmic specialists to North and South Uist, Benbecula and Barra, who will give eye treatment and eye-tests. In addition, there are two resident opticians in Stornoway, a third who visits Stornoway from Invergordon monthly, and a fourth, a Glasgow optician, who periodically visits the islands of Benbecula, South Uist and Eriskay, with centres at Lochboisdale, Daliburgh, Eochar and Treogarry.
§ Mr. M. MacMillanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is now the position in regard to the public demand in the Barras-Ness areas of the Isle of Lewis for separate medical practices.
63W
§ Mr. WoodburnSince I replied to the hon. Member on 24th February last, there has been a public inquiry in Stornoway in connection with the appeal to which I then referred. I hope to issue my decision in a few days.