HC Deb 05 February 1968 vol 758 cc14-5W
Mrs. Ewing

asked the Minister of Health if he will introduce legislation to alleviate the distress caused to the hard of hearing by the increase in the cost of batteries, which has risen from 11s. for six to 16s. 6d. for six, a majority of users being old-age pensioners.

Mr. K. Robinson

This type of battery is not used in any model of hearing aid currently supplied under the National Health Service.

Both aids and batteries provided under the Service are free.

I have no powers to regulate retail prices of mercury type batteries sold commercially, and do not intend to seek them, but my right hon. Friend the Minister of Technology is considering whether the increase in prices of mercury type hearing aid batteries should be referred to the Prices and Incomes Board.