asked the Minister of Pensions the average waiting time for the supply of surgical appliances through hospitals; and whether he can give an assurance that priority is given to patients who have to return to work as soon as they have recovered but who, without the surgical appliance ordered, are in danger of a recurrence of their disability.

The average waiting time for the supply of surgical appliances through hospitals is now about 12 weeks, but steps already taken to increase production should shortly reduce this waiting period. I can assure the hon. Member that the surgical and economic requirements of patients receive every consideration when deciding priorities.