HC Deb 09 January 1985 vol 70 cc523-4W
Mr. Galley

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he has any further plans to protect the visually handicapped when the provisions of the Health and Social Security Act 1984 are fully implemented.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

[pursuant to his reply, 21 December 1984, c. 420]: We will continue to give help towards the cost of spectacles supplied under the general opthalmic service (GOS) based upon financial need.

We propose to identify certain of the more powerful or complex lenses currently supplied under the GOS. All patients 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 at present people on low income will get them free or have part of the charge remitted.