§ Mr. Stallardasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the present criteria for exemption from prescription charges.
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§ Sir George YoungExemption from prescription charges is broadly based upon medical and financial need; the following groups of people are entitled to exemption from prescription charges
Men aged 65 and over, women aged 60 and over.Children under 16 years of age.Expectant mothers and mothers with a child under one year of age.People suffering from certain specified medical conditions.War or Service pensioners (for prescriptions needed for treatmet of their accepted disablements).People receiving Supplementary Benefit or Family Incomes Supplement.People whose income is not much above Supplementary Benefit level (whether or not they are working and including those of 16 and over who are still at school or college).Contraceptive substances and appliances, when prescribed under the NHS, are provided free-of-charge.The criteria for including a condition in the list of "specified medical conditions' which attract exemption have always been that it should be a permanent and clearly identifiable condition requiring prolonged and continuous medication; most specified conditions require specific substitution therapy. This list of conditions is compiled in conjunction with the General Medical Services Committee representing the medical profession.
§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will give an assurance that he has no plans to introduce prescription charges for pensioners.
§ Sir George YoungI refer the hon. Member to my hon. Friend's reply to the hon. Member for Bolsover (Mr. Skinner) on 5 November.—[Vol. 991, c.599.]
§ Mrs. Faithasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether there are any plans or proposals to end retirement pensioners' total exemption from prescription charges.
§ Sir George YoungMy right hon. Friend has no plans at present to change the exemption arrangements for retirement pensioners.