§ Mr. Stan Thorneasked the Secretary of State for Social Services when he expects to reach agreement with the pharmaceutical services negotiating committee; and from what date the new contract for pharmacies will apply.
§ Mr. HayhoeAgreement on a new NHS contract for community pharmacists was reached between the Government and the pharmaceutical services negotiating committee in June this year. I regret that in the light of legal advice, implementation of this agreement has been deferred until we can obtain the necessary primary powers to control entry to contract. The Government remain fully committed to the agreement but I cannot predict when the necessary powers will be available.