§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what representations he has received concerning the effect of eye test charges on the incidence of eye disease; [2390]
(2) if he will abolish charges for eye tests; and if he will make a statement. [2389]
§ Mr. MilburnThe Royal National Institute for the Blind has sent us a report of a survey which suggests that, since 1988. people have been having their eyes tested at less frequent intervals.
Since 1989 the availability of free National Health Service sight tests has been restricted to children, people on low incomes and people at particular risk of eye disease. We will be reviewing these arrangements.