HC Deb 10 July 1995 vol 263 cc417-8W
Mr. Ainger

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many representations he has received on NHS dental cover in Wales during the past 12 months. [31445]

Mr. Richards

In the past 12 months, 218 representations on the question of dental cover have been received either from or on behalf of people living in Wales. Of these, 136 were for hon. Members.

Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what progress has been made regarding the provision of NHS dental treatment in Wales. [31453]

Mr. Richards

There are presently 850 general dental practitioners in Wales, 36 per cent. more than in 1979. Some 1.7 million patients are registered with a dentist and some £68 million was spent on NHS dentistry in 1993–94.

Earlier this year the then Secretary of State announced that he was making a further £2.5 million available in Wales to improve dental services in the community and an announcement will be made soon about how that money will be spent.