§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what study he has made of the information he has received from the British Dental Association contained in the document sent to him by the hon. Member for Brent, South of patients putting off dental treatment because of the high cost.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThe available data show that there has been a steady increase in the number of courses of dental treatment provided since this Government took office, and they do not support the contention of the hon. Member that patients are putting off treatment for whatever reason.
§ Mr. Pavittasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to assist patients with low incomes to meet the increase in maximum dental charges from £60 to £90.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThe existing arrangements for remitting the whole or part of the charge for dental treatment, provided to patients with low income, will continue. At present nearly a half of the total number of chargeable courses of dental treatment are provided free to patients who are exempt from charges or who have the charges remitted.