§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he expects to reach a decision as to whether the users of expensive lenses may receive special financial assistance.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeWe have never considered special financial assistance to the users of expensive lenses. We have been considering ways in which we might respond to fears, even though they are often exaggerated, that this group might incur heavy additional expenditure as a result of the proposed changes to the general optical service. I announced our proposals during the debate on the Report stage of the Health and Social Security Bill on 2 May at columns391–92. We propose to identify certain of the more powerful or complex lenses currently supplied under the GOS. People needing such lenses will be given the option of continuing to have them supplied by the GOS. The charge to the patient will reflect the cost of the lenses and their dispensing as negotiated by the Department. Those on low income will get them free or have part of the charge remitted.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what ways he is considering of excluding unregistered sellers from supplying glasses for the blind and partially sighted; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeI shall let the right hon. Member have a reply as soon as possible.