HC Deb 26 July 1961 vol 645 c58W
Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Minister of Health what travel concessions are provided for relatives of patients in the special hospitals to visit them, and with what frequency; what is the annual cost to public funds; and if he will consider extending these concessions.

Mr. Powell

Under arrangements with the British Transport Commission, relatives can get return tickets for one and a half times the single fare whenever they are visiting a patient. No cost to Exchequer funds is involved. In addition the National Assistance Board can meet the travelling expenses of near relatives who are receiving a regular assistance grant; information as to the cost is not available. No extension of these arrangements is under consideration.