Written question asked by Andy Burnham (Labour) on Wednesday, 18 December 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 7 January 2003. It was answered by David Lammy (Labour) on Tuesday, 7 January 2003 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what plans he has to extend entitlement to NHS vouchers to children who are prescribed coloured spectacle lenses without a power for the purpose of enabling them to read.

Answer: Andy Burnham: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to extend entitlement to NHS vouchers to children who are prescribed coloured spectacle lenses without a power for the purpose of enabling them to read. [88579] Mr. Lammy: There is currently limited evidence to suggest that the provision of tinted lenses would provide enduring benefits to a significant number of children with reading difficulties, though some children may benefit. We will, however, continue to consider the issue as evidence becomes available and any decision will be taken in collaboration with the Department for Education and Skills.

Secondary information