§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will ensure the availability of free national health dentistry to all who require it; and if he will make a statement.
605W
§ Mr. RichardsThis Government remain committed to a comprehensive NHS dental service and the Green Paper "Improving NHS Dentistry" reinforces our commitment
to ensure that all patients who want NHS services have adequate access to them".It is for health authorities to assess the adequacy of NHS dental services in their locality and it is for them to decide on the extent of community dental services they need to contract in light of local circumstances. Family health services authorities are encouraged to seek the Secretary of State's permission to employ salaried dentists in areas where there is a shortfall in service provision.