§ Mr. CoakerTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent representations he has received about including Parkinson's Disease on the list of conditions which have exemptions from prescription charges; and if he will make a statement. [153499]
§ Ms StuartOver the last 12 months we have received seven letters requesting that Parkinson's disease be included in the list of medical conditions conferring exemption from prescription charges. People suffering from Parkinson's disease are entitled to free prescriptions if they are aged 60 or over, or they (or their partner) are receiving Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or tax credits (with their maximum credit reduced by £70, £71 from 10 April, or less per week). They may also claim for help under the national health service low income scheme. We have no plans to change these arrangements.