HL Deb 22 June 1999 vol 602 cc73-4WA
Lord Sawyer

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the future of the Medicines Control Agency. [HL3185]

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

We have published the report of the Quinquennial Review of the Medicines Control Agency (MCA). Copies have been placed in the Library. The review confirms that the MCA is a world leader in its field, with an international reputation for professional excellence. It has performed well against its targets, and has secured more work under the European licensing system than any other national authority. The review also shows that the MCA has used Executive Agency status well, and recommends that it should retain that status. We accept that recommendation.

In the light of the agency's excellent performance, we are pleased to announce that Dr. Keith Jones's appointment as Chief Executive of the MCA has been extended for a further three years.