§ Sir Nigel Fisherasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, in the light of the fact that the export prices of drugs are often based on National Health Service prices, what account he takes of the fact that restrictions in domestic prices are likely to lead to losses in balance of payments terms while yielding savings to the National Health Service.
§ Mr. Moyle:The pharmaceutical price regulation scheme recognises that the Department and the pharmaceutical industry have a common interest in securing a strong, healthy and profitable pharmaceutical industry in this country and in ensuring that safe and effective medicines are available to the NHS at reasonable prices. These are both important objectives and where there is conflict between them it is necessary to seek a balance. I am aware that in some markets the export price is related to the price in the country of origin: but I believe United Kingdom drugs are often bought by overseas purchasers because their quality, and the reasonableness of their prices, are widely recognised.
§ Mr. Hodgsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what effect the present industrial trouble on the road, rail and air transport systems is having on the supply of drugs; and how long he estimates it will be before this constitutes danger to the sick.
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§ Mr. Moyle:The information I am receiving from the Health Service confirms that so far it has been possible to maintain supplies of essential life-preserving drugs and other medical products to hospitals. But unless there is widespread observance of the recommendation to ease the movement of such supplies, shortages will certainly occur, though the effect would vary in time from place to place and from product to product. However, I am seriously concerned with regard to future production of pharmaceuticals, especially of antibiotics and similar complex drugs, where raw materials are not always getting through to manufacturers. This will inevitably lead to serious problems as existing supplies run out and there are no replacements in the pipeline. I hope that those concerned on the union side and in the pickets will bear in mind the fact that we are here talking about the production and delivery of supplies essential to maintain life and reduce pain.
I am keeping the situation under constant review. The officers I have appointed to the regional emergency committees are keeping me in close touch with developments. I am also closely in touch with the pharmaceutical industry.