HC Deb 28 June 1983 vol 44 c64W
26. Mr. George

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many Department of Health and Social Security staff are employed to assess acceptable levels of profit in the pharmaceutical industry.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

The assessment of the rate of profitability allowed on sales to the National Health Service is a matter for the judgment of Ministers based on all available evidence and advice. The equivalent of 12 full time staff are employed in operating the pharmaceutical price regulation scheme and carrying out related duties.

51. Mr. Lofthouse

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is satisfied with the present controls on profit levels in the pharmaceutical industry.

56. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps he intends to take to control the present level of pharmaceutical industry profits.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

The rate of profitability allowed to the industry as a whole as well as to individual companies is being examined as part of the review of the pharmaceutical price regulation scheme.