§ Mr. BerminghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) if he has any plans to change the provision of hearing aids as an integral part of the National Health Service; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what plans he has to impose charges or contributions on National Health Service hearing aids; whether such charges or contributions are to be subject to means-testing; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorWe are aware of dissatisfaction with aspects of the present arrangements and of the views of the Royal National Institute for the Deaf. We are carefully considering these and other suggestions. We have not yet, however, arrived at firm plans for any financial or other changes.