§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what steps he has taken to reduce the number of deaths from methadone in Wales. [50289]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsMethadone can be obtained only on prescription. The North Wales Health Authority operates a project where the administration of the drug is supervised by the pharmacists. The Dyfed Powys Health Authority will shortly embark upon a similar scheme which, in common with the North Wales Health Authority scheme, will promote the need for care amongst misusers 0and encourage close working between health professionals and other agencies. The results will be evaluated and, if successful, consideration will be given to applying the projects in other parts of Wales.