To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many (a) people aged under 25 years and (b) higher education students applied for assistance with their health costs through the HC1 form in 2005; and how many people from each category received such help. (108687)

The following table provides an estimate of those claiming for help with their health costs via the HC1 form (based on 2005-06 data as figures are not available for the calendar year 2005).

Those in receipt of HC2 certificates receive full help consisting of free prescriptions, sight tests, NHS dental treatment, wigs and fabric supports and travel to receive national health service treatment under the care of a consultant. The HC3 certificate provides partial help with the cost of the above, with the exception of prescriptions which are not free.