HC Deb 24 November 1986 vol 106 c141W
Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to ensure that all unemployed persons in receipt of supplementary benefit have access to regular free chiropody treatment when this has been prescribed by their doctor; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Newton

Decisions on how best to use limited chiropody resources are a matter for local health authorities. Where they are unable to provide a comprehensive service they have been advised to give priority to elderly people, handicapped people, expectant mothers and school children. A general practitioner who feels that a patient needs priority treatment can, of course, notify the district chiropodist of his view.