§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government towards bulk purchasing of drugs by National Health Service hospitals.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeHealth authorities are encouraged to make their own cost effective arrangements for purchasing drugs. These arrangements can include bulk purchasing contracts covering several hospitals or even a region where this is advantageous. The Health Service Supply Council is responsible for the policy for supply arrangements to the NHS and has set up a national group to examine the present arrangements for the supply of drugs.