§ Mr. Stan Thorneasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps he has taken to satisfy himself of the safety of Vessa Sprint wheelchairs supplied by artificial limb and appliance centres; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonThe Vessa Sprint is based on a standard departmental design modified to allow a higher degree of activity by users who, on medical assessment, show a reasonable level of co-ordination and reaction, and whose lifestyle will be enhanced by such a wheelchair. It has satisfactorily undergone safety tests normally carried out on wheelchairs supplied by the Department, including those for strength, fire retardancy and stability.