§ Mr. Andrew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will bring forward consultative proposals to simplify forms AG1, AG2 and AG3 in order to make it easier for the public to claim assistance with health charges.
§ Dr. MawhinneyWe are carefully considering the recommendations made following the review of the administration of the national health service low income scheme. In reaching final decisions on the measures necessary to further improve a service which already provides help to a large number of people on low incomes, we shall need to take account of current public expenditure constraints. Changes to forms AG1, AG2 and AG3 which may be required in the light of those decisions will be discussed with the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux and the other interested groups who contributed to the review.