§ Mr. Tony Lloydasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what encouragement the British Government give to countries implementing essential drugs policies; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenAs mentioned in my right hon. and learned Friend's speech to the World Health Assembly on 9 May 1984, the British Government assist less developed countries by offering practical training in the National Health Service and the United Kingdom pharmaceutical industry to medicines control inspectors. This leads to the improvement of the systems of ordering, stocking and distributing drugs down to hospitals, regions and outstation dispensaries. We also provide quality assurance for exports through the World Health Organisation certification scheme.
The Overseas Development Administration is always willing to consider requests from developing countries in 576W receipt of aid for help with the implementation of the World Health Organisation's action programme for essential drugs.