On 17 October 2006, the Government published its response to the Health Select Committee Report on NHS Charges (Cm 6922).

The Government responded to the 22 recommendations made by the Committee on areas such as prescription charges, car-parking charges, dental charges, on eligibility for NHS sight tests and on the hospital travel costs scheme.

As part of the response, the Government committed to carrying out an internal review of prescription charges and to making a further statement to the House prior to the summer recess this year.

Following this internal review, the Government have decided to hold a consultation in the autumn so that the public can contribute their views on any proposals prior to a final decision on future prescription charges.

The Government have made clear that any changes to the system would need to be cost neutral for the NHS. A further statement will be made after recess giving details of the consultation.