asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider removing VAT from medical aids for handicapped persons.

This is a matter for consideration in the budgetary context.

Would the Minister agree that it would be desirable to do something in this regard?

The general idea behind the proposal, and many other proposals I could mention, would be desirable and laudable.

As there is no VAT on medical appliances and medical substances for cattle and all animals, does the Minister not agree that it would be very desirable that appliances for unfortunate handicapped people should be free of VAT? In some cases this tax can be very high, 10 per cent or even higher.

I cannot usefully add anything to what I have already said.