§ Mr. CousinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what requirements for secure storage of drugs and equipment form part of her Department's agreements with pharmacists; what discussions she has had with pharmacists on pharmacy stores security in the last 12 months; and what allowance is taken in the payment structure for pharmacy services of either local or general security problems.
§ Dr. MawhinneyThe requirements for the handling and storage of controlled drugs are contained in the Misuse of Drugs (Safe Custody) Regulations 1973, as amended, which are a matter for my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department. For community pharmacists these regulations mean that, so far as circumstances permit, controlled drugs, with certain exceptions, must be kept in a locked safe or container. For non-controlled drugs, there are no statutory requirements. However, the code of ethics of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain sets out the practice standards with which pharmacists must comply. These include exercising a proper degree of professional care and control over the drugs and equipment in pharmacists' possession. Practice expenses are reflected in the global sum of money available for pharmacists' pay.