A new drive to end long waits for NHS cataract operations has been launched by health secretary Alan Milburn.

Using £56 million of new funding, the objective is to deliver shorter waiting times for patients so that no cataract patient is waiting more than three months by December 2004, with most areas achieving this by the summer of 2004.

Forum Response: Help the Aged

Tessa Harding, head of policy at Help the Aged, said: "We warmly welcome the increase in funds for cataract operations and other eye conditions.

"Good vision is one of the elements that enable older people to lead full and active lives. Investment in helping older people stay healthy makes thoroughly good sense."

Forum Response: The Royal National Institute of the Blind

Anita Lightstone, head of eye health at the Royal National Institute of the Blind, said: "RNIB are pleased this money has been made available as there is a continuing need to cut the waiting list for the treatment of this condition. As a result, we welcome the Department of Health's decision.

"We are also pleased that the government has decided to support and improve service provision for people with sight problems and low vision."

Forum Response: Guide Dogs for the Blind Association

Robin Hutchinson, head of communications at Guide Dogs, said: "We welcome any extra investment in medical provision for vision impairment and a reduction in waiting times for cataract operations has to be warmly greeted.

"However one of the concerns Guide Dogs has is the amount of money that is invested in preventative eye health information and education.

"We hope that the government will take very seriously our call to raise eye care up the national agenda and ensure everyone is aware that regular eye tests are an essential health check."