§ Mr. Mappasked the Minister of Health why nearly 10 per cent. of the limited supply of transistor hearing aids to reach the Manchester Hearing Aid Clinic are found unfit for use on arrival; and, whilst endeavouring to eliminate this additional expense, if he will ensure that the supply arrangements takes the damage factor into account.
§ Mr. Haleasked the Minister of Health what is the percentage of transistor hearing aids in the Manchester hospital 2W area being returned as unsuitable, over any recent period convenient for computation.
§ Miss PittAbout 8 per cent. this year. I am looking into this matter and will write to the hon. Members.
§ Mr. Mappasked the Minister of Health when he will be able to initiate supplies of the bone conductor transistor hearing aid to the Manchester Hearing Aid Clinic.
§ Miss PittA contract for these instruments is about to be placed but it is unlikely that they will be available in any considerable numbers before next autumn.
§ Mr. Haleasked the Minister of Health why the supply of transistor hearing aids is still being rationed in the Manchester and Liverpool hospital areas; and when an adequate supply will be available.
§ Miss PittThe exchange of over half a million instruments throughout the country must take a considerable time. It is hoped to complete it by the middle of 1963.
§ Mr. Haleasked the Minister of Health what is the number of applicants for a transistor hearing aid in the Manchester hospital area still awaiting supply.
§ Miss PittAbout 700 applications from persons in the priority categories are outstanding. I have no figures for other applications.