§ 42. Mr. M. Lindsayasked the Minister of Health if he is aware that many people in Birmingham and district have been waiting six months or more for new spectacles; whether he will now consider introducing a priority scheme for elderly people and others; and when he expects the delivery position to improve.
§ Mr. BevanI am aware of these delays which are general in all areas. Priority arrangements have been introduced for cases in which there would otherwise be serious deterioration of vision or total incapacity; they cannot be extended without further slowing down general deliveries. It is hoped that supply will begin to overtake demand by the end of the year.