§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what checks are carried out by inspectors on family practitioners who have dispensing facilities for drugs attached to their surgeries to ensure that abuses are not occurring, especially in respect of receptionists dispensing drugs on repeat prescriptions before they are signed and authorised by the family practitioner.
§ Mr. MellorThere are no formal inspection arrangements for family practitioners who have dispensing facilities attached to their surgeries, beyond those provided for under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 in relation to controlled drugs. General medical practitioners are required by their terms of service to ensure that only properly signed and authorised prescriptions are dispensed.