§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will estimate the numbers of people aged over 60 years who are deterred from having eye tests as a result of the charges imposed. [13707]
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThere is no evidence that people aged over 60 years are deterred by charges from seeking sight tests. The Government believe that people who can afford to do so should pay for their own sight tests and that help with optical costs should be based on ability to pay rather than age. Many people of 60 and over fall within the groups who are eligible for free NHS sight tests or for help with private tests through the NHS low income scheme.