§ The Countess of Marasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the issue of pyridostigmine bromide to British forces who served in Operation Granby was on a named patient basis in view of the fact that a product licence was not obtained until 11th August 1993 (The London Gazette, 27th August 1993), and if not, upon what basis was the normal procedure for prescription of unlicensed medicines suspended.
§ Lord HenleyPyridostigmine bromide, when given as a nerve agent pretreatment, as in Operation Granby, is not given as a medicinal product in accordance with normal procedures for prescribing medicines. Pyridostigmine bromide is taken by service personnel when a threat of chemical warfare exists. It was not issued on a named patient basis.