§ Mr. Andrew BowdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether he has any plans to reinstate free sight tests for(a) all age groups and (b) elderly people.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyWe have made provision for vulnerable members of the community such as children, adults on low incomes and those with certain special needs to continue to be entitled to free sight tests but we believe that those who can afford to pay should do so.
§ Mr. Andrew BowdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations he has received concerning the continued imposition of a charge for NHS sight tests.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyWe have received a number of representations. There is no charge for NHS sight tests: they continue to be available free to the most vulnerable groups in the community, accounting for approximately 40 per cent. of the population. There are no plans to change the current arrangements.
§ Mr. Andrew BowdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what information he has on the numbers of people over pensionable age who presented themselves for sight tests in each year since 1988.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyThis information is not collected centrally.