§ Mr. Ancramasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to promote the development of artificial limbs in Scotland.
§ Mr. FairgrieveExchequer funds for research into and the development of artificial limbs in Scotland are allocated by my Department on the advice of a prosthetic and orthotic committee representative of the many disciplines dealing with the problems of the physically disabled. In the current financial year the committee has recommended grants for research projects totalling £84,000 related to artificial limbs. In addition, my officials maintain a close contact with the Department of Health and Social Security and international bodies to share information on research and developments, and thus promote improvements in the service in Scotland.