Written question asked by Simon Hughes (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 13 February 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 18 February 1998. It was answered by Alan Milburn (Labour) on Wednesday, 18 February 1998 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what assessment he has made of evidence on the beneficial effects for dyslexic children of plano coloured spectacle lenses; and if he will amend the regulations to allow the inclusion of such lenses for clinical purposes within the optical voucher scheme.

Answer: Mr. Simon Hughes: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment he has made of evidence on the beneficial effects for dyslexic children of plano coloured spectacle lenses; and if he will amend the regulations to allow the inclusion of such lenses for clinical purposes within the optical voucher scheme. [30207] Mr. Milburn: Officials from the Department of Health and the Department for Education and Employment will shortly be discussing this evidence with members of the Institute of Optometry. Before consideration is given to any changes to the regulations, it must be clear that any benefits to children with reading difficulties are derived specifically from the use of coloured lenses.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 30207; 306 c714W;306 c712W
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Children Fees and charges Exemptions Dyslexia Ophthalmic services Spectacles