§ 65. Mr. Rhodesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has had from the Pharmaceutical Society in respect of proposed increases in National Health Service prescription charges; whether he will enter into consultations with the pharmacists before making any change in these charges; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Sir K. JosephThe Society asked that the proposal to increase the prescription charge to 20p be reconsidered. My reply explained the reasons for the Government's decision and that we are retaining wide exemptions. The Society also expressed opposition to charges related more closely to a proportion of the cost of the individual prescription, and I have assured it that no action would be taken on this proposal without full prior consultation with the pharmaceutical profession.