§ Mr. WareingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many representations she has received in respect of the extension of the limited list for medicines; how many were favourable to the proposed changes; and how many were unfavourable.
§ Dr. MawhinneyWe have received a number of representations about the extension of the selected list scheme, most of which have registered concern about various aspects of the new arrangements. In response, we have made it clear that the resources available to the national health service must be used as effectively as possible and that the select list scheme has already shown that it can exert downward pressure on the drugs bill without jeopardising patient care.
§ Mr. WareingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what discussions she has had with the Family Planning Association in respect of the limited list affecting contraceptives; and if she will make a statement;
(2) what discussions she has had with the British Association of Dermatologists in respect of the limited list affecting skin products; and if she will make a statement.
§ Dr. MawhinneyNone. Decisions on which drugs may no longer be prescribed under the national health service will be based on advice from the advisory committee on NHS drugs, which is free to seek any advice that it considers necessary for its review.
§ Mr. WareingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will make a statement on the future of the limited list for medicines.
§ Dr. MawhinneyThe selective list scheme is to continue and as announced in November its scope is being extended to drugs in 10 additional therapeutic categories.