HC Deb 14 December 1995 vol 268 cc805-6W
Mr. Hain

To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) if he will make it his policy to oppose any further regulations from the European Union which would restrict United Kingdom consumers' access to herbal medicines and remedies of their choice; and if he will make a statement. [6120]

(2) what is his policy in respect of availability of herbal remedies; and if he will make a statement. [6119]

Mr. Malone

The Government support the availability of herbal remedies within a framework of statutory controls to protect public health. We consider that existing legislation provides an appropriate measure of protection.

We are unaware of proposals from the European Union for the regulation of herbal remedies. We would consider any such proposals in the light of our overall policy to protect public health, but to do so with the minimum necessary regulation.

Mr. Hain

To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what consultation he undertook with(a) manufacturers, (b) consumers and (c) practitioners using medicinal herbs prior to deciding whether to support recent resolutions at the Council of Health Ministers relating to the status, marketing and availability of medicinal herbs; and if he will identify separately his consultation with the Society for the Promotion of Nutritional Therapy; [6118]

(2) what resolutions were passed at recent meetings of the Council of Health Ministers relating to medicinal herbs; if he will set out the terms of all resolutions; and if he will make a statement. [6117]

Mr. Malone

A resolution on medicinal plant preparations was adopted at the European Commission Council of Health Ministers meeting on 30 November. It invites the Commission to study public health safeguards relating to such preparations. It makes no policy proposals or statements. A copy of the resolution has been placed in the Library.