§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Healh what discussions she has had with the British Medical Association on the use of CFCs in prescription items; and if she will make a statement.
§ Dr. MawhinneyWe have not discussed the use of chlorofluorocarbons in prescription items with the British Medical Association.
The Licensing Authority has drawn to the attention of product licence holders the public statement by major suppliers of certain CFCs that they intend to cease production of these materials in the foreseeable future. We understand that the pharmaceutical industry is investigating the suitability of alternatives to CFCs, particularly for metered dose aerosol inhalations. Any company proposing to market a medicinal product using recycled or alternative materials in their manufacture would need first to satisfy the Licensing Authority as to the safety, quality and efficacy of the product by submitting a licensing application with the necessary supporting data.