HC Deb 01 May 1986 vol 96 cc445-7W
Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will list the National Health Service hospitals in Wales which dispense spectacles to hospital eye patients on-site.

Mr. Mark Robinson

The following hospitals dispensed spectacles on-site in 1984, the latest year for which statistics are available: Bridgend General, Maesgwyn, Glanrhyd, Parc, Hensol, Llwynypia, Porth, Ystrad Mynach, South Pembrokeshire.

Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will ensure that health authorities in Wales introduce in-hospital dispensing of glasses in all cases where it does not take place now; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

The proposals for the future dispensing of glasses in the hospital eye service have been the subject of a consultation exercise. The response is still being considered and it is too early to confirm the detailed arrangements which will be made for dispensing.

Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make it his policy to set voucher values in Wales at such a level that no additional payment has to be made by in-patients in hospital currently entitled to free glasses; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

Long-stay patients in hospitals will continue to be entitled to basic glasses to meet their clinical need free of charge when the voucher system is introduced.