§ 40. Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the earliest day on which mothers of one-child families earning less than £18 13s., of two-child families with earning and family allowances obtaining £20 15s. or less, and of three-child families obtaining £22 19s. or less, respectively, may apply to their local office of the Department of Health and Social Security to receive a prescription exemption certificate; when the necessary forms will be available; and if application has to be personal.
§ Mr. DeanThe new income levels will apply from the introduction of the higher charges on 1st April, 1971; parents with slightly lower incomes can, however, apply for exemption at present. All children up to 15 are exempt. Forms are always available and claims can be made either by post or in person.
§ 66. Mr. Edwin Wainwrightasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will give the number of persons who pay £1 10s. and £2 15s. to cover the cost of prescriptions for six months and 12 months, respectively; and what opportunity is given to those persons to pay either of the aforementioned amounts by an instalment method.
§ Mr. AlisonIn the twelve months ended 30th June, 1970, 83,600 prepayment certificates were issued by Executive Councils in England, 45,500 for a period of six months and 38,100 for a period of twelve months. An instalment method of payment would not be appropriate.