§ Mr. Christopher Priceasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what powers he has to assist patients who need to have operations in countries that are not covered by reciprocal agreements;
(2) if he will make an ex-gratia payment to Mrs. Maxine Knight of 26 Playgreen Way, London, SE6 in respect of the operation that she requires to save her life, which has to be performed in Sweden.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeUnder the National Health Service Act 1977 my right hon. Friend's power to meet the cost of accommodation and treatment provided outside the United Kingdom is limited to cases of persons suffering from respiratory tuberculosis. Otherwise, apart from certain provisions within the European Community, he has no powers to assist patients treated outside the United Kingdom. I am afraid, therefore, that he is not able to make a payment for treatment given in Sweden.