§ Mr. Sproatasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the cost of free spectacles in the latest 12 months for which figures are available; and what percentage was in respect of retirement pensioners.
§ Mr. DeakinsGlasses are supplied free or at reduced cost to children and to adults with a low income. The charges so forgone in England are estimated to be about £6.5 million for the financial year 1976–77. There is not sufficient information to estimate what proportion of this was in respect of retirement pensioners.
548W