§ Mr. Joel Barnettasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, in his regular review of all major companies supplying drugs, what was found to be the least net profit as a percentage of selling price, and what to be the highest.
§ Mr. AlisonThe information is not available. We examine the overall profitability of the National Health Service business of the companies, and not the profits on a drug's selling price.
§ Mr. Joel Barnettasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, in his discussions with the drug industry, how many admissions have been made that excessive profits were made.
§ Mr. AlisonNone, but most major companies have made price reductions, sometimes on their own initiative and sometimes after negotiation with the Department.
§ Mr. Joel Barnettasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if his discussions with the drug industry on profit margins included foreign firms; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AlisonYes. I have no statement to make.