HC Deb 20 January 1977 vol 924 cc623-4
10. Miss Fookes

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will reverse his decision to permit the retail sale of animal medicines on the "Farmers' List" under Part III of the Medicines Act in the light of representations made to him by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the British Veterinary Association.

Mr. Strang

No, Sir. We believe that the best course is to implement the "Farmers' List" proposals and proceed thereafter with a detailed review of the retail sale requirements appropriate to the different products on the list.

Miss Fookes

Why is the Minister ignoring the considered views of the BVA, which is an expert body and which considers that these particular medicines are unsafe for general sale? Does the hon. Gentleman hold its views in complete contempt?

Mr. Strang

Of course we do not hold its views in contempt. We shall be taking its views fully into account when we consider these products one by one. The hon. Lady will recognise that there is a wide range of views throughout the industry generally, and among producers of these products, as to the right way to sell them.

Mr. Ogden

My hon. Friend will know of my special interest in pharmaceutical matters. Will he agree to meet a joint deputation, if this can be arranged, of the veterinarians and the pharmacists? Will he undertake that safety will be the overriding consideration in his mind and that of his right hon. Friend?

Mr. Strang

Yes indeed. We have already met representatives of the pharmacists and the veterinarians. I shall be happy to meet them again if my hon. Friend so wishes.