asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make financial assistance available to deaf persons who are unable to use the National Health Service deaf aid.

No, Sir. My right hon. Friend would not feel justified in extending national health services in this way.

Is not my hon. Friend aware that, while the Medresco aid has helped large numbers of deaf people and that the new hearing aid envisaged will help many more, there is still a significant number of the deaf who, through no fault of their own, cannot use these hearing aids? Is is fair that these people should have to supply themselves completely with hearing aids and not be able to get any help from the State?

In many cases I believe that if these deaf people went through the full range of diagnosis, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation which we provide through the hospital service, it might be found that some of the National Health Service aids could help them. I admit that there are gaps in the technology and I am glad to say that the Medical Research Council is helping to see whether we can improve what can be done for these people.

I recognise that only a small percentage of people cannot use the Medresco aid, but will the Secretary of State address himself to the problems of those working in professions where there is a need for a slightly extra hearing ability? Will he consider, first, giving some priority on that type of ground when the new behind-the-ear aids are issued and, secondly, discussing with the Chancellor of the exchequer the possibility of tax relief on aids as being tools for a job in instances where it can be proven that they are needed in order to continue employment in a profession?

I shall certainly consider the moderate and constructive proposals which the hon. Gentleman has made, but without commitment.