§ Mr. WatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what proportion of the Government's additional funding allocated for community equipment services will be available for low vision equipment in Eastbourne; and what plans he has to appoint a visually impaired representative on the advisory group that will issue guidance to the NHS and Social Services. [152165]
§ Mr. HuttonAdditional funding for community equipment services has been included in allocations to health authorities 2001–02, with provision also made in the personal social services settlement. It is for health authorities and local councils to determine local funding priorities. The Royal National Institute for the Blind has a representative on the community equipment services external reference group, which has been advising on the planned guidance.