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4
Assuming that one-third of the parents of such children were
too poor to afford the few shillings necessary to procure glasses— I
think an excessive estimate— and the average cost of the glasses to
be 5/-, the cost to the Local Education Authority of absolutely free
provision in such cases would not exceed £60 per annum, and it is
inconceivable that a considerable proportion of this would not be
returned or recovered in full or in part payment by the beneficiaries.
In fact, the aim should be assisted provision where necessarv rather
than free provision.
Should the Committee decide to apply to the Board of Education
to adopt this scheme, and the Board sanction its adoption, I think
tenders for the supply of spectacles should be invited under terms of
contract.
I am, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
Willam Buler
School Medical Officer.
24th November, 1910.