§ Mr. Butterfillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what are the arrangements for spectacle repairs for children in the spectacles voucher system;
(2) what are the arrangements for spectacle repairs for adults in the spectacles voucher system.
§ Mr. NewtonFinancial assistance is available towards all repairs of children's spectacles. The amount of assistance varies according to the nature of the repair up to a maximum of the value of a full voucher in cases where it is necessary to replace the spectacles completely. For repairs to damaged spectacles adults are expected to take advantage of guarantee arrangements which are increasingly available from optical suppliers. However, where the spectacles have been rendered unserviceable by fair wear and tear vouchers are available to adults in the eligible groups towards the cost of their replacement.
§ Mr. Butterfillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with arrangements in the spectacles voucher system for repair to glasses for children or adults who are disabled or are otherwise at risk of frequently breaking their glasses.
§ Mr. NewtonComprehensive arrangements exist for the repair of childrens' glasses. The Department has received representations about the arrangements for adults who are disabled and who are prone to break their glasses frequently. We are reviewing these arrangements.
§ Mr. Butterfillasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether, in the case of complex lens users receiving only the £2 (single vision) or £14 (bifocal) voucher, opticians are expected to offer glasses at voucher prices so that customers have the opportunity to buy basic models of single vision complex glasses at £31 or bifocals at £52; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonSpectacles are now supplied entirely through the private market and prices are determined by the suppliers. I understand that current full voucher values for complex prescriptions can enable those on low incomes to obtain a basic pair of spectacles in the private market to meet their clinical needs.