HC Deb 28 April 1986 vol 96 cc276-7W
Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on his policy towards the provision of National Health Service and other chiropody services for amputees; and if he will specify how his policy applies to each different category of amputee.

Mr. Newton

Handicapped people, including amputees of whatever category, are recognised as one of the priority groups for receiving National Health Service chiropody treatment.

For war pensioners, when NHS chiropody services cannot be provided, the Department meets the cost of private treatment for any foot condition that results from the disablement for which the war pension is being paid. Under these arrangements, leg amputees can receive private treatment for their remaining foot because of the abnormal stress and strain to which it is subjected. Arm amputations do not of themselves entitle war pensioners to private chiropody but this policy is being reviewed.