§ Mr. Freudasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he had had from pharmacists regarding the inadequacy of his additional allowance for containers.
§ Mr. MoyleWe have not received any representations from pharmacists on additional allowances for containers.
§ Mr. Freudasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether, in view of the large number of closures, he proposes to take any further action to encourage pharmacies in rural areas to remain operative; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoyleRecent changes in National Health Service remuneration arrangements will help many pharmacies in rural areas. The new differential payment system, which was introduced on 1st January and which will become fully effective on 1st July, will produce substantial improvements in the sums paid to smaller pharmacies, which are at most risk of closure. An agreement has also been reached with the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee under which more pharmacies will qualify for help under the essential small pharmacies scheme. My right hon. Friend has undertaken to review the effects of the new