§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans she has to amend the essential small pharmacy scheme; and what estimate has been made of the impact of different options on the numbers of pharmacies which dispense less than 2,000 prescriptions a month.
§ Dr. MawhinneyThe Department is discussing changes to improve the essential small pharmacy scheme with the pharmaceutical services negotiating committee. Our proposals will ensure that patients continue to enjoy reasonable access to a local pharmaceutical service.