asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his estimate of the amount payable in 1982–83 and the forecasts for 1983–84 by way of (a) prescription charges, (b) dental charges and (c) ophthalmic service charges.

I have no later figures for 1982–83 than those given in my answer to the hon. Member on 16 November—[Vol. 32, c. 128–30]. Decisions on the levels of individual charges for 1983–84 will be announced shortly, but, as my right hon. Friend said on 8 November—[Vol. 31, c. 331]—we shall increase charges only in line with costs.