§ Mr. Heddleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether his Department will re-examine the 380W regulations concerning entitlements to free prescriptions to allow a woman below the age of 50, who is entirely dependent upon the income of her husband who is over 65 and entitled to a free prescription, to be entitled also to a free prescription.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeWe do not at the moment intend to extend exemption from prescription charges to further specific small groups of people. Ample provision is already made for those in need in the wide-ranging exemption arrangements, particularly on the grounds of low income, and in the availability of prepayment certificates (season tickets). Over 75 per cent. of all prescriptions are currently dispensed free under these arrangements.