§ 78 and 79. Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Health (1) how many hearing aid distributing centres there are in the south-west region; and what action he is taking to increase the number so as to facilitate the distribution of these instruments;
(2) if he is aware that a large number of persons in the south-west region have been waiting for hearing aids for three years; and what action he is taking to speed up the supply of these instruments for this region.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThere are at present three hearing aid distribution centres in this region. I know the length of time patients are having to wait there for their aids, and I am at present considering with the hospital authorities concerned various methods of shortening it. There has already been a large and steady increase in the rate of distribution at Bristol and a fourth centre is to be opened shortly at Gloucester.
§ 91. Mr. Lambertasked the Minister of Health the average delay in supplying hearing aids in Devon; and what steps he is taking to improve the position.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodI understand that most patients now being fitted there applied between 2 and 2½ years ago. The local hospital authorities are at the moment considering how the two centres serving the area can be strengthened.