HC Deb 15 July 1996 vol 281 c386W
Mr. Redmond

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will establish an independent commission of inquiry to review the current arrangements for collecting prescription charges; and if he will make a statement. [36302]

Mr. Malone

The scheme was last reviewed in 1993 as part of the fundamental review of health expenditure. There are no plans for a further review. Extensive charge exemption and remission arrangements, among the most generous in Europe, ensure that only those able to afford the prescription charge are asked to pay.