HC Deb 14 April 1993 vol 222 cc599-600W
Mr. Burden

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what representations she has received regarding the effect on small pharmacies of the limit on the rise for 1993–94 in the global amount paid by her Department for pharmaceutical services.

Dr. Mawhinney

We have offered to increase the global sum out of which pharmacists' fees are paid by 1.5 per cent. in 1993–94. This accords with the Government's wider policy on public sector pay. How this money is allocated is a matter for discussion with the pharmacists' representatives. Those discussions are continuing.

Mr. Cox

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what survey her Department has undertaken on the number of pharmacies closing in the Merton, Sutton and Wandsworth areas; and if she will make a statement.

Dr. Mawhinney

Three pharmacies have closed between 1 October 1990 and Septemper 1992.