§ 21. Mr. Leighasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the percentage of prescriptions which are issued free of charge; and how this compares with other west European countries.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeIn England some 72 per cent. of prescribed items are dispensed free of charge under the exemption arrangements, and a further 6 per cent. are dispensed to holders of prepayment certificates. Comparable information for other west European countries, where the arrangements for payment for prescribed drugs vary is not readily available.