asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what evidence she has received that people in the city of Birmingham are being charged for medical services which are available free within the National Health Service; and if she will instigate an urgent investigation into this matter.

None; but I understand that two such allegations have in the past been investigated by the Birmingham Family Practitioner Committee under the procedure laid down in the NHS (Service Committees and Tribunal) Regulations, and both were dismissed. Since either party may appeal to my right hon. Friend against an adverse decision resulting from such an investigation it would not be appropriate for her to initiate inquiries as suggested.