§ Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received from the European Commission concerning the status of his limited list proposals with regard to European Community law; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe Commission has invited us to submit observations on our proposals and we will be replying in due course. We are quite satisfied that our proposals comply with Community law.
§ Mr. Spellerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will take steps to make available on National Health Service prescription the 13 drugs which were previously available on prescription only but which under the National Health Service (General Medical and Pharmaceutical Services) Amendment Regulations 1985 would no longer be available for supply under 326W pharmaceutical services either in generic or brand-name form; if he will explain the reasons for his original decision in respect of these 13 drugs; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeWe have been advised by our panel of independent experts that adequate alternatives exist to all the drugs which will cease to be available on NHS prescription from 1 April, whatever their licensed status. By making a selection of drugs to remain available on NHS prescription, substantial savings will be made, to be used for other services to patients in the NHS.
Patients will, if they wish, be able to obtain prescription-only medicines not available under the NHS on non-NHS prescription. But there will be no medical need for them to do so.