§ Mr. BurdenTo 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. MawhinneyWe 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. CoxTo 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.
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§ Dr. MawhinneyThree pharmacies have closed between 1 October 1990 and Septemper 1992.