§ Mrs. Ray MichieTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what plans he has to extend the list of eligible people with mental illnesses exempt from paying for prescribed treatment; and if he will make a statement; [28200]
(2) what representations he has received from (a) organisations and (b) individuals about the extra financial costs imposed by prescription charges on people suffering from mental illnesses; [28202]
(3) what plans he has to introduce free medication for people with mental illnesses who are treated in the community; and if he will make a statement. [28201]
§ Mr. MaloneNone. Many people who are mentally ill benefit from our extensive exemption arrangements, which are among the most generous in Europe. In 1996–97 we expect 85 per cent. of prescriptions to be dispensed free.
We receive approximately two letters per month on this subject, mainly from individuals.