§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many pharmacy contractors there are in each of the local authority areas of Wales. [30590]
§ Mr. HagueThe information is not available in the form requested. The number of pharmacy contractors in each health authority area is as follows:
Area Number Bro Taf 190 Dyfed Powys 122 Gwent 121 Morgannwg 129 North Wales 152
§ Mr. JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many representations he has received from pharmacy contractors concerning the late payment of remuneration; how many payments of remuneration have been delayed more than 120 days; and if he will make a statement. [30588]
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§ Mr. HagueThere are no identified cases of agreed payments of salary, overtime or allowances to Welsh Office staff being delayed for more than 120 days.
§ Mr. JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what measures he will adopt to assist the cash flow problems of pharmacy contractors with regard to their need to pay their suppliers. [30589]
§ Mr. HagueThe present system of reimbursement is being considered as part of the 1996–97 pay negotiations for pharmacists' fees and allowances. As the negotiations are not completed, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this stage.
§ Mr. JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many representations he has received from pharmacy contractors concerning the late payment of remuneration. [30587]
§ Mr. HagueOne from a pharmacy contractor, and eight from hon. Members writing on behalf of a constituent.
§ Mr. JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he proposes to retain retail price maintenance for medicines; and if he will make a statement. [30601]
§ Mr. HagueThe decision to review retail price maintenance for pharmacy products was made by the Office of Fair Trading. I understand that the review is looking closely at the possible effects which abolition may have on the viability of the independent pharmacy sector.