§ Mrs. LaitTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans she has to improve consultation between her Department and the pharmaceutical industry.
§ Mr. SackvilleWe established earlier this year a pharmaceutical industry strategy working group consisting of representatives of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) and senior officials from 409W the Department of Health, the Treasury and the Department of Trade and Industry with the terms of reference:
To consider jointly the future development of the pharmaceutical industry in the UK, its contribution to the UK economy and its role in the provision of health care; and in particular to consider issues of common interest such as the provision of affordable health care and the encouragement of a strong pharmaceutical industry.In addition, officials consult regularly with the ABM and individual companies on specific issues of mutual interest.