§ Mr. ShersbyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services how many sight tests were carried out under the National Health Service during the most recent 12-month period for which figures are available; and if he will make an estimate of the number of such tests for which payment will be demanded, allowing for the proposed exemptions, if the charges proposed in the Health and Medicines Bill are enacted.
§ Mr. NewtonSome 10.75 million sight tests were conducted in England under the NHS in the 12-month period to 30 June 1987. We estimate that around 70 per cent. of sight tests would in future be paid for privately.