§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations she has had from the British Medical Association and the Association of Optometrists on the effect of eye examination charges on those aged over 65 years. [18258]
§ Mr. MaloneThe Association of Optometrists and the British Medical Association have written to me with a copy of their joint document, "Free Eye Examinations for the over 65s", which we are studying.
§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps she has taken to assess the effect on the elderly of charges for eye examinations; and if she will make a statement. [18170]
§ Mr. MaloneNone. Elderly people who are in receipt of income support, family credit or disability working allowance are entitled to a free national health service sight test, and those in receipt of a low income who have difficulty in paying for their optical costs, can claim help under the NHS low-income scheme.