§ Dr. D. Johnsonasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there are no facilities for artificial limb fitting or repairs to artificial limbs in Carlisle, with the result that those who are in need of these services are compelled to travel at their own expense to the Appliance Centre at Newcastle-upon-Tyne; and whether he will make arrangements for such a centre to be established in Carlisle in order to make appropriate provision for the limbless in Carlisle and Cumberland.
§ Mr. BarberThe establishment of a full-time centre in Carlisle would not be justified, but I have been examining the practicability of making some other arrangements there.
§ Dr. D. Johnsonasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that whereas prior to 1948 limbless people in Carlisle who attended the Appliance Centre at Newcastle were provided with a free travelling warrant plus facilities for claiming subsistence for loss of earnings for their day's attendance these benefits do not now exist; and if he will take steps to re-establish them forthwith, in view of the fact that the present return fare of 15s. 9d. from Carlisle to Newcastle is a heavy burden on disabled people in addition to their day's loss of work.
§ Mr. BarberBefore 1948 limbless people attending centres were virtually all war pensioners. Facilities for obtaining travel warrants and claiming subsistence are still available to them. National Health Service patients attending the centre may apply to the National Assistance Board for assistance with travelling450W expenses if payment would involve hardship.