HC Deb 20 July 1978 vol 954 cc385-6W
Mr. Cyril Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received about the problems created for spectacle-wearers by the new behind-the-ear hearing aids; and if spectacle modification, required as a consequence of the new hearing aid, especially for pensioners, will be freely available under the National Health Service.

Mr. Alfred Morris

I have received one such representation. The instructions supplied with NHS hearing aids suggest that, provided wearers put on their glasses before fitting on their hearing aids, few will experience discomfort or need even minor spectacle modifications. My Department is prepared to look into any case of difficulty.