§ Mr. Spellerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services by what date the United Kingdom will be obliged 336W to conform to EEC Directive No. 85/374 on product identification in respect of prescribed generic drugs and medical supplies; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HowardI have been asked to reply.
EC Directive 85/374 relates to the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the member states concerning liability for defective products, including drugs and medical supplies. Member states are obliged to implement the directive not later than three years from the date of notification of the directive—that is, by 30 July 1988.
The Consumer Protection Bill, which includes provisions to implement this directive, was introduced into another place on 19 November. Hon. Members will have ample time to consider those provisions in due course.