HL Deb 20 July 1994 vol 557 c36WA
The Countess of Mar

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are aware that groups of farmers are forming syndicates with one of their number, a holder of a certificate of enrolment for the certificate of competence in the safe use of sheep dips, making bulk purchases of OP sheep dips on their behalf in order to circumvent the requirements of the Medicines (Veterinary Drugs) (Pharmacy and Merchants' List) (Amendment) Order 1994; and what measures they are taking to enforce the regulations.

Earl Howe

It is not lawful for a farmer, or a representative of a farm syndicate or buying group, to make bulk purchases of OP sheep dip for onward sale to other farmers, unless the farmer or such representative is a registered agricultural merchant under the Medicines Act. Alternatively, where a bulk purchase is made by a person (who may be representing a syndicate or buying group) acting as an agent of several individuals, the purchase would need to be supported by a certificate of competence in respect of each farm involved. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain is the enforcement body, which undertakes periodic inspections at sales outlets of veterinary medicines to ensure that these controls are complied with.