§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what research is being carried out by his Department into the supply of better calipers for disabled people; if any new designs or materials are likely to be introduced; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RossiThe Department does not itself carry out research in this field, but sponsors and finances promising research projects in establishments with a more direct clinical connection.
283WThere are a number of projects in hand. One is looking at the guidance of the hip-joint path as a basis for new design concepts. Another, by attaching instruments to calipers to determine more precisely the loads and stresses involved, aims to assist future design. Linked with the latter, yet another is looking at both traditional and new knee-joint designs for a new British Standard which is based on performance requirements rather than on materials and dimensions so as to provide greater freedom of design. Other new design concepts are being encouraged.
The potential for the use of carbon fibres is being investigated, but development of calipers using plastic materials to give lightness and a more pleasing appearance continues and appears the more promising line.