§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will introduce a diet supplement for pregnant women on supplementary benefit.
§ Mrs. ChalkerSupplementary benefit is intended to cover all normal day-to-day living expenses, including those of diet. In addition, pregnant women on supplementary benefit are entitled to free welfare milk and vitamin tablets. A further supplement for diet during pregnancy would add further complexity to the scheme, and would also have significant cost implications which could not be afforded at the present time.