HL Deb 16 July 1999 vol 604 cc75-6WA
Lord Acton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the outcome of their consideration of the public response to the Medicines Control Agency's proposals for classifying borderline products, as published in its consultation letter MLX 249. [HL3715]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health (Baroness Hayman)

We have carefully considered all the areas of concern raised by respondents in what has been a very active consultation process. We will be announcing our detailed response on specific issues and we will be responding positively to all the main concerns raised. There has never been any intention to, and there is no effect in these proposals that would, change the definition of a medicinal product. The Government's intention is to ensure that the legal obligation to protect public health is safeguarded while maintaining public access to a range of safe dietary supplements and natural products.