§ 131. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Health how much he has saved by the imposition of a charge on surgical shoes, rupture belts and elastic stockings, respectively.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodStatistical information is not available in a form which makes accurate estimates possible. But I estimate roughly that since the introduction of the charges the annual cost to the hospital service of the articles referred to by the hon. Member has been reduced by about£400,000. I am looking into the position of elastic hosiery supplied on the prescription of general practitioners and will write to the hon. Member.
§ 132. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Health the number of people in Cardiff provided with surgical shoes under the National Health Act during 1950, 1951, 1952 and the anticipated number for 1953.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodThe numbers were 554, 491 and 456 for 1950, 1951 and 1952, respectively. Information is not at present available on which to base an estimate for 1953.