§ Mr. TredinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for Health when he last met representatives of complementary medicine; what aspects of impending EEC legislation were discussed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DorrellMy hon. Friend the then Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State met representatives of the complementary therapies on 29 November 1989. At the meeting they expressed fears that their professions might be adversely affected by EC legislation.
There are three current EC directives in this area—two on higher education diplomas one of a general nature, containing nothing specific to individual professions; they will not affect alternative practitioners' right to practise in the United Kingdom. The purpose of the other directive, on homeopathic medicinal products, is to achieve a single market whilst safeguarding public health. Our considerations will take account of United Kingdom interests and traditions.