§ Mr. Awberyasked the Minister of Education if he is aware that when an ear, nose and throat consultant recommends a commercial type hearing aid for a child because a National Health Service one is inadequate for its special needs, the cost has to be defrayed by the local authority; and if he will take steps to make this a charge upon the National Health Service.
§ Sir D. EcclesI am aware that many local education authorities provide commercial type hearing aids through the School Health Service. The Association of Education Committees have made representations about this which we are now considering. Any question of charges borne by the National Health Service is a matter for my right hon and learned Friend the Minister of Health.