§ Mr. JackTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the annual cost in the financial year 1986–87 for the provision of free dental inspections; and what is the projected cost for the financial year 1987–88.
§ Mr. NewtonThe cost of free dental examinations in England in 1986–87 was £97.4 million. The projected cost for 1987–88 is £105 million.
§ Mr. JackTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services in each of the last five years, what was the annual number of free dental inspections carried out.
§ Mr. NewtonInformation is available up to 1985 by calendar year, and by financial year from 1986–87.
England Year Number (thousands) 1986–87 29,043 1985 28,624 1984 28,325 1983 27,913 1982 27,451
§ Mr. Sean HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what proportion of the £170 million which he seeks to raise in increased charges from the dental and ophthalmic services will fall upon the general dental service in England and Wales.
§ Mr. NewtonIt is expected that approximately half will come from the proposed changes in dental charges.