§ Mr. George Gardinerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many of the new improved hearing aid units for distribution through the National Health Service have been ordered from Denmark; and when she expects distribution of these units to commence.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisNo supplies of the new behind-the-ear aids have been ordered from Denmark, but a contract has been placed with a Danish firm to manufacture in Scotland. Tenders from other potential suppliers are still under consideration. I would prefer not to disclose the number of aids contracted for while the rest of the tendering exercise remains to be completed. I expect that distribution to specified priority groups will start in November 1974.