HC Deb 06 November 1980 vol 991 c645W
Mr. Campbell-Savours

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he will reconsider his decision to preclude multiple sclerosis sufferers from the automatic list of those exempt from prescription charges.

Sir George Young

In response to recent representations from the Multiple Sclerosis Society my right hon. Friend has explained that extension of the list of specific medical conditions to include multiple sclerosis and many other groups for which a similar case for automatic exemption might be made would result in increased costs. For this reason he reluctantly decided not to approach the medical profession at this stage with a view to adding to the list.

I hope that sufferers from multiple sclerosis will inquire if they are entitled to low income exemption. Should that form of help not be available, they might consider buying the "season ticket" which limits the cost for people who need frequent prescriptions.